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32X 


a 


■  TBE 

I  HISTORY 

■  OF  THE 

I  LATE    WAR, 

I  BETWEEN   THE 

I    UNITED  STATES  AND  GKEAT  BRITAIN; 

CONTAINING   A 
BRIEF  RECAPITULATION  OP  THE  EVKNT8 

wnica  LID  TO  TBI 

DECLARATION  OF  WAR: 

ITS    PROGRESS,  AMD  AN  ACCOUNT  OF  THE  VARIOUS  BULUART 

LAND  AND  NAVAL  VICTORIES, 

INCLDDINO  TBI 

BATTLE  OF  NEW  ORLEANS. 


BY  H.  M.  BRACKENRIDOE. 


<      'ENhAKGjED  AND   CORRECTED. 


PITTSBURGH: 

PUBLISHED  BY  JOHNSTON  &  STOCKTON. 

1835. 


I  I  ii|iii!llil|lfi p 


the  Western  District  of  Pennsylvania. 


BtercotypcHl  by  J.  A.  James,  Cincinnali. 


aui 


PREFACE 

THE  FIRST  EDITION. 


to  act  of  Congress,  in  ilie  year  1834,  by 
STOCKTON,  in  the  Clerk's  Office  for 
met  of  Pennsylvania. 


/  r^^  J 


StercotypcHl  by  J.  A.  James,  Cincinnati. 


The  events  of  the  late  war  have  already 
exercised  the  pens  of  numerous  writers,  and 
certainly  there  could  not  be  a  more  fruitful 
subject.  The  author  has  attempted  a  con- 
cise narrative  of  the  principal  occurrences, 
freed  from  voluminous  naval  and  military 
details.  The  fjreater  part  of  the  works  al- 
ready published,  are  in  too  expensive  a 
shape  and  bulk  for  general  circulation,  or 
for  the  use  of  schools. 

What  volume  so  favorable  to  the  forma- 
tion of  the  youthful  patriot,  as  that  which 
asserts  the  rights  and  dignity  of  our  coun- 
try; which  records  the  glorious  actions  of 
our  countrymen;  and  which  proves  that  our 
national  character  has  risen  under  the  in- 
fluence of  our  political  institutions!  The 
author  has  therefore  thrown  in  the  back 
A*  V 


-.--jagafeyiaiftw».i ' 


Vi  raMTKOM  TO  THE  FIBST  EDITION. 

ground,  the  minor  events  of  the  late  glori- 
ous «rar,  in  order  to  place  in  a  more  con- 
spicuous point  of  view,  thos^  of  a  more  im- 
portant  character.  Our  soldiers  and  sail- 
ors have  done  their  duty ;  it  remains  for  thei/ 
children,  while  they  prize  them  as  becomes 
the  posterity  of  freemen,  to  emulate,  when 
a  similar  crisis  shall  require  it,  the  deeds  of 
their  fathers. 


'ai 


opi 
wa 
wo 


O  THK   FIBST   EDITIOK. 

or  events  of  the  late  glori- 
;r  to  place  in  a  more  con- 
,f  view,  thos'-  of  a  more  im- 
er.  Our  soldiers  and  sail- 
leir  duty ;  it  remains  for  their 
they  prize  them  as  becomes 
freemen,  to  emulate,  when 
ihall  require  it,  the  deeds  of 


PREFACE 

TO   THE   NEW  EDITION. 


Short  is  our  sight  into  futurity,  and 
vainly  do  we  calculate  the  durj\bility  of 
the  foundations  en  which  we  build!  The 
little  round  of  earth  remains,  when  tem- 
plei;  and  towers  have  gone  down.  '*Son 
of  the  winged  winds  where  dost  thou  build 
the  airy  hall?  The  blast  of  the  desert 
comes— it  howls  through  thy  empty  courts." 

With  an  ambition  lofty,  compf  red  to  my 
humble  powers,  I  have  sought  to  build  the 
"airy  hall"  of  fame.  Self-love  has  taught 
rae  to  think,  that  fortune  and  fashion  have 
bestowed  more  favors  to  others  than  to  me; 
and  yet  the  history  of  this  Uttle  volume 
leads  me  to  the  conclusion,  that  public 
opinion,  if  not  always  right,  does  not  al- 
ways err.  Little  did  I  suppose,  that  9> 
work  on  which  I  had  bestowed  great  la- 

vii- 

— .  !ai>;.'itS!JiMiiBiii!W!iWJi^^ 


. 


Viii  PKOTACB  TO  TUB  WEW    KDITION. 

bor  and  research,  after  passing  through 
„VB  BorrioNs,  and  been  transhUcd  into 
foreign  languages,  should  have  entirely 
disappeared  from  circulation,  while  the  vol- 
ume the  render  now  holds  in  his  hand, 
which  was  cast  like  "bread  upon  the  wa- 
ters,"  without  a  name  to  shew  its  author- 
ship, should  pass  through  TiiiRTy  EDrrioNS, 
and  have  established  itself  permanently  m 

public  esteem! 

For  its  singular  success  it  is  indebted  to 
itself  alone;  for  I  had  almost  forgotten  that 
I  had  ever  written  it,  until,  by  accident, 
it  came  in  my  way.  I  am  only  surprised 
at  the  correctness  of  the  decision  of  pub- 
lic opinion;  for  it  is  as  much  superior  to 
the  larger  work,  as  the  quintessence  is  to 
the  gross  material.  It  is  in  fact,  the  spi- 
rit, which  still  walks  and  travels,  after  the 
body  has  been  placed  in  the  tomb. 

After  completing  my  larger  history,  and 
while  its  incidents  were  all  fresh  in  my 
mind,  I  wrote  this  little  book,  not  as  an 
abridgement,  but  as  a  summary,  and  gave 
it  to  a  friend,  and  it  was  pubUshed  with- 
out  my  name.     I  now  claim  paternity  to 


TO  THB  WKW    EDrriOI^' 

rch,  after  passing  through 
and  been  transhUcd  into 
jrcs,  should  have  entirely 
m  circulation,  while  the  vol- 
:r  now  holds  in  his  hand, 
t  like  "bread  upon  the  wa- 
a  name  to  shew  its  author- 
ss  through  TiiiRTy  kditions, 
blished  itself  permanently  in 
I 

ular  success  it  is  indebted  to 
,r  I  had  almost  forgotten  that 
ritten  it,  until,  by  accident, 
|r  way.    I  am  only  surprised 
ncss  of  the  decision  of  pub- 
or  it  is  as  much  superior  to 
>rk,  as  the  quintessence  is  to 
erial.     It  is  in  fact,  the  spi- 
l  walks  and  travels,  after  the 
;n  placed  in  the  tomb, 
dating  my  larger  history,  and 
;ident8  were  all  fresh  in  my 
e  this  little  book,  not  as  an 
but  as  a  summary,  and  gave 
,  and  it  was  published  with- 
;,     I  now  claim  paternity  to 


ix 


PUBFAOB  TO  THB  New   BdITIOW. 

the  little  wanderer,  which,  it  seems,  has 
unassisted,  made  its  way  to  fortune,  and 
found  favor  with  our  masters-^Ac  People 
of  this  Republic.  May  it  be  the  instrument 
of  friendly  aid  to  its  parent  and  elder 
brethren,  in  «  »  land  of  strangers." 


Ca 


D« 


lD> 


Ca 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER  I. 


l 

■  Cauwi  of  the  war  with  England — Oiden  in  Coancil    !■» 

■  preMment — Indian  HoMUltiei.  •        >     13 

CHAPTER  II. 

Dtclamtion  of  War — State  of  the  country.         •         S 

CHAPTER  III. 

lavadon  of  Canada  by  General  Hull — Battlei  of  Brown*- 
town  and  Maguaga — Hull  evacuatci  Canada — BrMkk 
invasion,  and  iiurrender  of  Hull,  -  -        98 

CHAPTER  IV. 

Ifaval  A&in — Capture  of  the  Ouriien— Kaval  VkM)> 
rief.  .  .  -  .  .  39 


CHAPTER  V. 

■Utle  of  Qneenitown— Oeneial  Smytht 
n>and — Colonel  Pike's  incursion. 


45 


CHAPTER  VI. 

Aflkiis  of  the  West — Movements  of  General  HandMiK  S3 

CHAPTER  VII. 

Meeting  of  Congress — Proposed  Armistice — i^ptute  of  tfe* 
Java— Operations  on  the  Lakes — Siege  of  Fort  Meigs.  59 

CHAPTER  VIII. 
Capture  of  the  Fisacock— Other  Naval  Affairs.  69 

xi 


nOMTKNTB- 


xn 


CHAPTER  IX. 

RuMian  Mediation— BriUiant  events  of  the  War.  70 

CHAPTER  X. 

Capture  of  the  British  Squadron  on  Lake  Erie— Defw^ 
of  Proctor.         .  -  -  -  *        ^^ 

CHAPTER  XI. 

War  on  tiie  AUantic  Sea  Coast— Disgraceful  conduct  of 
,    tiie  British. 

CVIAPTER  XII. 

Naval    affaire— War    carried    on    against    tiie    Eas'*™ 
States. *" 

CHAPTER  XIII. 
War   -      tiie    Nortiiem   Frontier— Batties  of  Chippew 
and  i  iagara.  .  -  -  -  123 

CHAPTER  XIV. 
Capture  of  Washinston— Defence  of  Baltimore.  134 

CHAPTER  XV, 

Glorious   events  of  tiio    war— British  defeateU  at  Plattt- 
burgh— Repulsed  at  New  Orleans— Peace. 

CHAPTER  XVI. 
Defence   of  New  OiJeinj— BriUiant  termination   of  the 
War. 1*> 

CHAPTER  XVII. 
Seminole  War— Florida  Treaty.  -  -         161 


146 


ooirrKNTS. 

CHAPTER  IX. 

ition— Brilliant  events  of  the  War. 

CHAPTER  X. 

e  British  Sqn-idron  on  Lake  Erie— DefW 

_  ■  "  •  B* 

CHAPTER  XI. 

Mantic  Sea  Coast— Disgraceful  conduct  of 

-  "  "  "  *         •^*' 

CVIAPTER  XII. 

s_War    carried    on    against    the    Eastern 
...  -         114 

CHAPTER  XIII. 
Northern   Frontier— Battles  of  Chippewa 
ra.  -  -  -  -  ^^ 

CHAPTER  XIV. 
Vashington — Defence  of  Baltimoie. 

CHAPTER  XV, 

nts  of  the    war— British  defeated  at  Platts- 
pulsod  at  New  Orleans — Peace.        -      146 

CHAPTER  XVI. 

New  Oii<>«n»— BrilUant  termination   of  the 
150 


fflSTORY  OF  THE  LATE  WAR. 


CHAPTER  I. 


134 


CHAPTER  XVU. 

ar— Florida  Treaty. 


161 


Causes  of  the  war  with  England— Orders  in  Council — 
Impressment — Indian  Hostiiites. 

The  United  States  assumed  a  rank  among  the 
nations  of  the  world,  in  one  of  the  most  stormy 
periods  of  its  history.  All  Europe  was  convul- 
sed with  the  effects  of  the  French  revolutior 
The  mighty  warrior  which  it  called  into  political 
life,  seemed  to  move  as  the  genius  of  the  tempest. 
One  of  his  ruling  maxim  was  never  to  tolerate  a 
neutral ;  all  therefore  within  the  reach  of  hib  arm 
were  either  allies,  vassals,  or  foes.  England, 
whose  erroneous  policy  had  in  the  first  instance, 
given  rise  to  this  distempered  energy,  chose  to 
adopt  the  same  maxim.  She  moreover  appealed 
to  the  world  as  the  defender  of  the  liberties  and 
rights  of  nations,  and  plainly  denounced  as  trai- 
tors, those  who  declined  a  participation  in  hor 
i)uarrels. 

Fortunately  for  this  country,  the  waves  of  the 

Atlantic  rolled  between  it  and  the  fury  of  the 

.uropean  belligerants.     However  desirous  they 
B  13 


u 


HISTOBIT   or  THE   LATB  WAS. 


might  be  of  engaging  us  in  their  mad  oontert,  it 

lid  only  be  Through  in«iduous  arts  by  .hich 

Z  in^x^nenced  are  entrapped,  or  by  repeated 

p' ovocatSn.    For  twenty-five  years  the^  de- 

Lns  were  resisted  with  unshaken  fimness.- 

The  advice  of  Washington,  to  keep  alo^fron. 

r  dangerous  contest,  was  strictly  observed 

Thenatfonwas  repeatedly  exasperate     ^on 

endurance,  but  the  government  opposed  Uselft^ 

the  imprudent  effects  of  wounded  «ationa^  P"f 

andfeeW    It  appears!  to  be  a  contest  betw^n 

France  and  England  which  could  injure  us  m^^ 

and  on  our  i>art  how  long  w.  could  forbear.  But 

LreisaplintatwhichthLrorbear^oarnu^ 

become  not  only  impolitic,  but  unjust    Thep«^ 

^s  had  taken  to  keep  aloof  from  the  European 

wars,  at  last  came  to  be  mistaken  for  puBillanim- 

Hy  or  at  least  for  a  want  of  -rgy  in  the  atru. 

ture  of  the  government.     It  became  fashionaWe 

to  represent  us  as  amean  and  sordid  race,  «|^  j^^^ 

pable  of  any  generous  sentiment,  and  exclusiv^  ^^^^ 

ly  devoted  to  self-interest,  whom  no  m^ult,  no  .^  ^ 

iniury,  could  provoke  to  stnke.  ^^ 

The  practiL  at  first  resorted  to  for  the  pur 
pose  of  engaging  us  to  share  their  battles,  wen  ^  ^^ 
^w  converted  into  theordinarymeansofsupp^y^j^^j 

ing  their  coffers,  or  of  recruiting  their  strengthJ 


Fran 
Spaii 
exan 
dere( 
seem 
our  s 
situa 
of  p< 
to  co; 
Fr 
catioi 
adisi 
main 
ward 
ous. 
ered 
of  pi 
gethc 
expel 
real 


-I^MH 


OF  THE   LATB  WA«. 

ging  us  in  their  mad  contest,  it 
rough  insiduous  arts,  by  which 
I  are  entrapped,  or  by  repeated 
or  twenty-five  years,  these  de- 
ted  with  unshaken  firmness.— 
Washington,  to  keep  aloof  from 
contest,  was  strictly  observed, 
repeatedly  exasperatet'  beyond 
he  government  opposed  itself  to 
•Tects  of  wounded  national  pride 
appeared  to  be  a  contest  between 
rland  which  could  injure  us  most, 
how  long  w«5  could  forbear.  Bui 
at  which  thte  forbearance  must 
impolitic,  but  unjust.  Thepauu 
0  keep  aloof  from  the  European 
me  to  be  mistaken  for  puBiUanim 
for  a  want  of  energy  in  the  struo- 
ernment.  It  became  fashionable 
as  a  mean  and  sordid  race,  mca- 
enerous  sentiment,  and  exclusive- 
wlf-interest,  whom  no  inwlt,  no 
rovoke  to  strike. 
58  at  first  resorted  to  for  the  pur 
ing  us  to  share  their  battles,  wen 
into  the  ordinary  means  of  supply 
rs,  or  of  recruiting  their  strengthl 


HISTOBT   or   THE   lATE   WAB. 


15 


France  coi  fiscated  and  plundered  our  ships; 
Spain,  and  some  of  th«  petty  states,  followed  the 
example,  as  though  our  pacific  policy  had  ren- 
dered us  lawful  prey  to  all  nations.  England, 
seemed  to  think  that  she  had  a  right  to  transfer 
our  seamen  to  her  service  at  her  pleasure.  Thus 
situated,  it  became  no  longer  a  matter  of  choice 
of  peace  or  war,  Sut  of  our  enemy,  or  whether 
to  contend  with  both. 

From  Britian  we  had  experienced  great  provo- 
cation. This  haughty  power,  seemed  to  harbor 
adidike  to  us  for  having  so  bravely  declared,  and 
maintained  our  independence.  Her  conduct  to- 
wards us,  was  uniformly  hostile  and  contemptu- 
ous. She  had  called  us  rebels,  sho  still  consid- 
ered us  as  successful  rebels,  whose  destitution 
of  principle  must  cause  us,  in  the  end,  to  fall  to- 
gether by  the  ears,  and  thus  make  room  for  their 
expelled  sovereign,  Little  did  she.  know  the 
real  spirit  of  American  liberty.  The  settling 
down  of  this  mighty  republic,  into  that  sober, 
order,  and  beautiful  symmetry,  which  at  present 
it  possesses,  appeared  to  her  a  state  of  anarchy. 

The  treaty  of  1783,  was  shamefully  slighted; 
although  at  peace,  she  smote  us  with  a  conceal- 
ed hand: she  instigated  a  dreadful  Indian  war,  in 
which  thousands  of  American  citizens  were  bar- 


16 


BUTOBf  OF  THK  iATB  WAK. 


barously  murdered.     It  will  be  long  before  the 
people  of  the  Western  country  can  forget  the  de- 
feats of  Harmer  and  Sinclair,  or  the  massacres 
of  the  frontier  settlers.     If  there  existed  any 
particular  desire  for  war  on  the  part  of  the  Union, 
this  is  surely  enough  to  account  for  it.    When 
the  Indian  hostilities  were  at  last  happily  termin- 
ated by  the  bravery  and  prudence  of  General 
Wayne,  nnd  a  treaty  of  amity  in  J 794,  concluded 
with  England,  it  was  thought  that  we  might  at 
last  indulge  the  first  wish  of  our  hearts,  and  live 
at  peace:  but  we  were  greatly  mistaken.     Our 
growing  prosperity  could  not  be  seen  by  heir  with- 
out envy;  as  she  was  at  war  with  Prance,  the 
carrying  trade  fell  into  our  hands,  and  greatly 
enriched  our  merchants.     Britain  resolved  iw  put 
a  stop  to  (his  by  renewing  what  is  called  the  rule 
of  '66,  established  by  her  at  that  period,  in  order 
to  embarrass  the  French  commerce.  It  was  foun- 
ded ostensibly,  upon  the  idea  that  neutrals  ought 
not  to  alleviate  the  sufferings  of  war  to  a  belliger- 
ant,  by  keeping  up  an  intercourse  between  its  dif- 
ferent ports  or  colonies;  but  it  was  in  reality,  the 
Tesult  of  a  flagrant  usurpation  of  the  sovereignty 
of  the  seas.     It  was  followed  up  by  orders  of 
council,  which  restricted  the  American  commerce, 
and  exposed  many  of  our  ships  to  capture  and 


many 
only  I 
pleasi 
Th 
ticed) 
enum< 
enterj 
thato 
high 
counti 
of  wa 
years, 
Thet 
beconi 
the  pi 
wards 
was  e 
The  I 
more, 
subjec 


OF  THE  ULTB  WAR. 

i.    It  will  be  long  before  the 
tern  country  can  forget  the  de- 
nd  Sinclair,  or  the  massacres 
jttlers.    Jf  there  existed  any 
)r  war  on  the  part  of  the  Union, 
Dugh  to  account  for  it.    When 
ies  were  at  last  happily  termin- 
ery  and  prudence  of  General 
aty  of  amity  in  1794,  concluded 
was  thought  that  we  might  at 
rst  wish  of  our  hearts,  and  live 
!  were  greatly  mistaken.    Our 
ty  could  not  be  seen  by  heir  with- 
)  was  at  war  with  Prance,  the 
ill  into  our  hands,  and  greatly 
chants.    Britain  resolved  tw  put 
encwing  what  is  called  the  rule 
1  by  her  at  that  period,  in  order 
French  commerce.  It  was  foun- 
)on  the  idea  that  neutrals  ought 
e  sufferings  of  war  to  a  belliger- 
ip  an  intercourse  between  itsdif- 
lonies;  but  it  was  in  reality,  the 
nt  usurpation  of  the  sovereignty 
was  followed  up  by  orders  of 
Btricted  the  American  commerce, 
[ly  of  our  ships  to  capture  and 


HISTORY  OF  THE   IATE  WAR.  17 

condemnation.  Britain  not  satisfied  with  these 
violations  of  the  sacred  laws  of  nations,  estab- 
lished a  new  rule  of  blockade:  but  which  she 
affected  to  consider  as  merely  retaliatory;  this 
was  by  placing  her  enemy's  ports  in  a  state  of 
blockade  by  mere  proclamation,  and  without  st?- 
tioning  any  efficient  force.  Under  these  and 
many  other  pretexts,  the  American  flag  could 
only  be  said  to  float  on  the  ocean  at  her  will  and 
pleasure. 

There  was  another  grievance  which  she  prac- 
ticed upon  us,  even  more  insupportable  than  those 
enumerated.  Very  soon  after  our  commercial 
enterprise  began  to  spread  its  wings,  it  was  found 
that  our  seamen  were  exposed  to  be  taken  on  the 
high  seas,  from  underneath  the  flag  of  their 
country,  and  dragged  on  board  the  British  men 
of  war,  where  they  were  compelled  to  serve  for 
years.  No  Algerine  servitude  could  be  worse. 
The  abuse  was  very  soon  so  severely  felt  as  to 
become  a  cause  of  indignant  remonstrance  on 
the  part  of  President  Washington,  and  after- 
wards of  every  successive  statesman,  to  whom 
was  entrusted  the  safety  of  the  commonwealth. 
The  British  alleged  in  excuse,  for  it  was  nothing 
inore,  the  diflliculty  of  distinguishing  between  her 

subjects,  and  the  citizens  of  this  country.     It  ap- 
B* 


1ft 


HUTOBY  OF  THB  XJlTZ  WAB. 


peared,  howev  jr,  that  very  little  care  was  taken 
on  her  part  to  avoid  the   abi'sea  which   must 
necessarily   result;  for  this  investigation    was 
usually  entrusted  to  a  petty  officer,  who  was 
either  not  disposed  or  incapable  of  proceedin'j 
fairly  to  vrork;  and  people  of  every  color,  and 
of  every  nation,  were  equally  liable  to  be  im- 
pressed, or  more  properly  speaking,  kidnapped. 
This  distressing  outrage,  was  the  constant  theme 
of  complaint  on  the  part  of  the  American  gov- 
ernment: but  instead  of  reilress  we  had  the  mor- 
tification of  oeeing  it  repealed  .-'ith  greater  fre- 
quency.   American  ships  on  the  high  seas,  were 
sometimes  left  without  a  sufficient  number  of 
men  to  navigate  them,  exposing  the  lives  of  the 
remainder  and  ruining  the  voyage.    Indignities 
not  to  be  borne,  were  heaped  upon  our  unfortu- 
nate countrymen;  the  certificates  of  their  nativi- 
ty, with  which  they  had  provided  themselves,  a 
kind  of  humiliation  to  which  no  other  people 
had  ever  been  exposed,  was  taken  from  them, 
torn  in  pieces  and  scattered  to  the  winds.     To  so 
great  an  extent  had  this  violation  of  all  human 
rights  been  carried,  that  it  was  estimated  that  in 
the  year  1810,  there  were  not  less  than  seven 
t.'^ousand  American  seamen  who  had  been  drag- 
ged on  board  the  British  ships  of  war,  serving 


against 
rous  sta 
by  the 
laval  cc 
af  the  p 
ed,  wh( 
ittack  0 
citizens 
frigate, 
id  man 
jiortify 
ihe  ine 
Ihey  hi 
cparati 
leek  of 
y  and 
ingraci 
This 
e  fom< 
epoch, 
tUothe 
nistres 
iothof 


jsing  i 

far  as  I 

log  OUT 

Wha 


OF  THB  UlTZ  WAB. 


hat  very  little  care  was  taken 
roid  the   abi'ses  which  must 
;  for  this  investigation    was 
to  a  petty  officer,  who  was 
d  or  incapable  of  proceedin'j 
ad  people  of  every  color,  and 
vere  equally  liable  to  be  im- 
properly speaking,  kidnapped, 
utrage,  was  the  constant  theme 
the  part  of  the  American  gov- 
ead  of  reilresa  we  had  the  mor- 
g  it  repealed  .-'ith  greater  fre- 
an  ships  on  the  high  seas,  were 
ithout  a  sufficient  number  of 
hem,  exposing  the  lives  of  the 
lining  the  voyage.    Indignities 
were  heaped  upon  our  unfortu- 
,;  the  certificates  of  their  nativi- 
ley  had  provided  themselves,  a 
tion  to  which  no  other  people 
xposed,  was  taken  from  them, 
d  scatte  red  to  the  winds.     To  so 
had  this  violation  of  all  human 
led,  that  it  was  estimated  that  in 
here  were  not  less  than  seven 
»n  seamen  who  had  been  drag- 
e  British  ships  of  war,  serving 


BtraORV  OF  THB   L.VTE  WAB. 


10 


against  their  v»i!i,  and  consequently  in  a  barba- 
rous state  of  slavery.  All  this  was  heightened 
by  the  unparalleled  insolence  of  the  British 
laval  commanders  on  our  waters.  The  patience 
af  the  people  of  this  country  was  almost  exhaus- 
ed,  when  the  climax  of  insult  was  offered  in  the 
ittack  on  ihe  Chesapeake,  where  five  American 
:itizens  were  token  from  on  board-  a  national 
frigate,  after  attacking  her  in  the  most  unexpect- 
»d  manner,  and  under  circumstances  peculiarly 
mortifying.  Fiading  at  last,  that  war  would  be 
ihe  inevitable  consequence  of  this  wanton  act, 
ihey  humbled  themselves  so  far  as  to  offer  a 
reparation,  in  the  return  of  the  seamen  to  the 
leek  of  their  ship;  but  this  was  not  done  prompt- 
y  and  magnanimously,  but  came  late,  and  waa 
ingracious  in  its  circumstances. 

This  storm  only  blew  over  that  another  might 
»  fomented.  The  United  States  were  at  this 
Bpoch,  the  only  neutral  in  t!ie  Christian  world, 
ill  other  nations  were  involved  in  war.  France, 
nistress  of  the  land,  and  England  of  the  sea. 
Joth  of  these  nations  were  in  the  habit  of  exer- 
asing  all  the  privileges  of  war  towards  us,  as 
ar  as  lay  in  their  power,  while  we  were  pursu- 
Qg  our  policy  of  peace. 

What  could  we  now  do?    The  first  and  sim- 


ao 


IIIiTCiBV   OF  T»B   LATE  WAB. 


plest  idea  which  suggested  itself,  was  to  stay  at 
-home,  wlierc  we  could  be  more  safe  than  in  stir- 
ring abroad,  exi)osed  to  be  assailed  by  a  tygcr 
or  lion  watching  for  his  prey.     An  embargo  was 
laid-  but  the  experiment  of  some  months,  proved 
that  from  the  great  extent  of  our  sea  coasts 
and   the   preponderating   weight  of  individual 
interest,   over  patriotism,  it   could  not  be   en- 
forced.    It  was  therefore  taken  off^  and  m  place" 
of  it  a  law  was  passed  forbidding  all  intercourse 
with  France  and  England.    By  this  means.we 
were  still  enabled  to  carry  on  some  trade  with 
Spain,  the  West  Indies,  and  the  nations  round 
the  Baltic.    But  we  were  not  long  in  discover- 
ing, that  an  escape  from  war  was  inevitafele. 
Our  national  character  had  sunk  abroad,  and 
appeared  'n  be  sinking  at  home;  and  what  man 
or  society  of  men  ever  prospered,  with  mfamy 
attached*  to  their  reputations?    The  Americm. 
was  ashamed  to  own  his  country  while  abroad. 
Throughout  the  whole  nation,  the  opinion  was 
fast   gaining  ground  that  we  must  have  wftr, 
But  against  which  of  the  bellige.ants  should  it 
be  waged?    This  was  the  question.    We  bad 
abundant  cause  tor  complaint  against  both.    The 
vast  fleet  of  England  would  drive  our  little  navy 
from  the  ocean,  and  lay  our  flourishing  cities  ib 


ashes, 
a  i^nere  1 
forces  b 
ourselvf 
adopted 
the  who 
choice 
port."  of 
against 
would  fli 
in  counc 
peace  oi 
Englant 
ister  foi 
ernmeni 
repeaiet 
Regent 
quibblet 
the  rep< 
It  was  i 
really  a 
isteiice, 
It  no^ 
ing  fair 
by  us  i 
the  nioi 
pressioi 


)F  THB   l^TE  WAB. 

iggested  itself,  was  to  stay  al 
uld  be  more  safe  than  in  stir- 
jed  to  be  assailed  by  a  tygcr 
r  his  prey.  An  embargo  was 
inent  of  some  months,  proved 
lat  extent  of  our  sea  coasts, 
jrating  weight  of  individual 
riotism,  it  could  not  be  en- 
3refore  taken  oflTj  and  in  place" 
ssed  forbidding  all  intercourse 
England.    By  this  means.we 

to  carry  on  some  trade  with 
[ndies,  and  the  nations  round 
we  were  not  long  in  discowr 
ipe  from  war  was  inevitafele. 
iracter  had  sunk  abroad,  and 
iking  at  home;  and  what  man 
1  ever  prospered,  with  infamy 

reputations?  The  American 
own  his  country  while  abroad, 
whole  nation,  the  opinion  was 
lund  that  we  must  have  whr 
h  of  the  bellige.ants  should  it 
s  was  the  question.  We  bad 
)r  complaint  against  both.  The 
land  would  drive  our  little  navy 
and  lay  our  flourishing  cities  it 


BI8T0R7   OF  TOK   lATS   WAB. 


21 


ashes.  With  resiiect  to  France,  a  war  would  be 
a  i^iere  flourish,  for  we  could  neither  meet  their 
forces  by  land  c-  sea,  unless  wo  chose  to  thrust 
ourselve.<»  into  the  tygcr's  den.  The  course 
adopted  by  the  administration  was  perhaps  upon 
the  whole  the  wisest;  that  was,  to  leave  it  to  the 
choice  of  the  bcUigerants  themSelves.  The 
portp  of  the  United  States  were  therefore  closed 
against  both,  but  would  be  open  to  that  one  which 
would  first  rescind  his  obnoxious  decrees  or  orders 
in  council,  and  then  would  come  the  question  of 
peace  or  war.  To  these  fair  and  equitable  terms 
England  affected  to  accede,  ana  the  French  min- 
ister formally  and  solemnly  declared  to  our  gov- 
ernment, that  the  Berlin  and  Milan  decrees  were 
repealed;  on  this  being  made  known  to  the  Prince 
Regent  and  the  English  cabinet,  tl.ay  si.ufllednnd 
quibbled,  and  affected  to  regard  the  v  Jence  of 
the  repeal  on  the  part  of  the  French  insu.licient. 
It  was  in  vain  to  say  that  we,  the  only  persons 
really  affected  or  exposed  to  injury  by  their  ex- 
isteiice,  were  satisfied ;  they  could  not  h»i  repealed. 
It  now  became  as  clear  as  the  light,  that  noth- 
ing fair,  just  or  honorable,  was  to  be  looked  for 
by  us  from  England.  She  basely  persisted  in 
the  most  iniquitous  scheme  of  plunder  and  o\>- 
pression,  and  declined  under  every  species  of 


32 


HVrOBY   OF  THB   lATB  WA». 


subterfuge,  the  nunierous  proffers  of  the  Ameri 
can  government  to  remedy  the  evils  of  impren- 

ment. 

These  were  not  the  only  causes  of  irritation 

against  Great  Britain.     Besiiies  coming  in  con 

tact  with  her  on  the  sea,  where  she  harassed  our 

commerce  and  kidnapped  our  fellow-citizens,  w( 

also  «mmo  in  collision  with  her  on  th?  land 

Our  situation  with  France  was  materially  differ 

ent;  we  might  shun  her  if  we  chose,  but  not  « 

with   England,    for  if  we  withdrew  from  tlw 

ocean,  sIh  could  still  harass  us  in  consequence 

of  our  vicinity.     From  the  influence  of  the  fur 

companies  of  the  North  West,  all  the  Indian  na 

tions  in  that  quarter  were  at  their  disposal, 

excepting  the  nations  which  resided  within  th( 

territorial  limits  of  the  United  States.     This  in 

fluence  was  liable  to  abuse,  and  in  fact  was  contin 

uaily  abused ;  the  poor  deluded  creatures  wrough 

upon  by  presents  and  artful  tales,  became  inimica 

to  the  Americans.     An  Indian  chief  of  uncommoi 

ability,  had  at  this  time  acquired  the  ascendancj 

over  all  the  scattered  tribes  along  the  lakes,  mw 

on    the  waters  of  the  Ohio.     He  had  been 

fierce  enemy  of  the  whites  since  the  first  settle 

ment  of  the  country,  and  was  one  of  the  mos 

noted  warriors  that  had  appeared.    The  nam 


of  thic 
ed  by 
jugglei 
one  ap 
comma 
were  s 
of  the  I 

Hem 
United 
any  ht 
be  to 
would  1 

Inth 
betwee 
ostensi 
by  Gov 
the  In( 
treaty  i 
most  in 
digupti 
The  he 
induced 
regime 
Boyd,  t 
tucky, 
ana.  ^ 
with  th< 


OP  TBB   LATB  WAl. 

inierous  proffers  of  the  Ameri- 
a  remedy  the  evils  of  impren- 

>t  the  only  causes  of  irritation 
itain.  BesideH  ooniing  in  con 
he  sea,  where  she  harassed  oui 
inapped  our  fellow-citizens,  w( 
llision  with  her  on  thp  land 
h  France  was  materially  differ 
lun  her  if  we  chose,  but  not  « 
for  if  we  withdrew  from  the 
still  harass  us  in  consequence 
From  the  influence  of  the  fui 
North  West,  all  the  Indian  na 
•ter  were  at  their  disposal,  no 
tions  which  resided  within  th( 
of  the  United  States.  This  in 
j  to  abuse,  and  in  fact  was  contin 
I  poor  deluded  creatures  wrough 
and  artful  tales,  became  inimicj 
,  An  Indicm  chief  of  uncommoi 
is  time  acquired  tho  ascendanq 
;ercd  tribes  along  the  lakes,  ani 
of  the  Ohio.  He  had  been 
the  whites  since  the  first  settle 
intry,  and  was  one  of  the  mos 
that  had  appeared.    The  nam 


HIBTORV   OF  THB   LATB   WAR. 


28 


of  this  savage  was  Tccumseh,  who  was  aid- 
ed by  an  artful  Indian,  a  kind  of  high-priest  or 
juggler,  called  the  Prophet,  his  brother.  The 
one  appealing  to  superstitious  fears,  the  other 
commanding  respect,  exciting  awe;  and  both 
were  soon  found  to  be  useful  tools  in  the  hands 
of  the  British. 

Hence,  the  prevailing  wish  through  the 
United  States  of  conquering  Canada;  not  from 
any  benefit  or  advantage  the  acquisition  might 
be  to  us;  but  could  wc  possess  Canada,  war 
would  be  only  known  on  tho  ocean  and  coast. 

In  the  autum,  1811,  serious  differences  arose 
between  us  and  the  Indians  on  tho  Wabash,  the 
ostensible  cause  of  which,  was  a  purchase  made 
by  Governor  Harrison,  of  a  large  tract  of  land  in 
the  Indiana  territory,  from  the  Indians.  At  a 
treaty  near  Vincennes,  Tccumseh  behaved  in  the 
most  insolent  manner,  and  openly  threatened  to 
dig  up  the  tomahawk  from  under  the  tree  of  peace. 
The  hostile  deportment  of  the  Indians  soon  afler 
induced  the  GSovernor  to  call  to  his  aid  the  4th 
regiment  of  United  States'  infantry,  under  Col. 
Boyd,  and  a  body  of  volunteer  militia  from  Ken- 
tucky, besides  a  small  body  of  militia  from  Indi- 
ana. With  these  ho  proceeded  up  the  Wabash 
with  the  intention  of  building  a  fort  near  the  Pro- 


I 


M  MirroRT  or  th«  tAT"  ^*«- 

phot's  town,  nearabranch  of  the  VVa^hcalW 

Ti,),.ccano..,  Hince  Income  famous^  On  »u«  ar 
rival  he  was  .net  by  the  Prophet,  Wmnnac,  and 
Lr.hief.  who  professed  to  bo  peaceably 
some  other  duels,  wno  |>i 

disposed,  requested  him  to  -camp  for  the  day 
and  promised  to  come  the  next  mornmg  and  hoW 
a  council  of  peace  With  this  request  the  Go^. 
replied,  unsuspicious  of  theirtr^^^^^^^ 
Towards  morning,  the  Indians  led  on  by  Wunma 
suddenly  assailed  the  can.p,  having  kdlcd  the 
They  were  received  with 

Americans  lost  upwards  of    180  in  k  u 
to:la,anK,ng  whom  were  many  valuable  of.. 

'"clnel  Davics,  one  of  the  first  men  in  Ken- 
tucky,or  perhaps,  in  this  country,  was  among  the 
IL'  .lonem.yd  and  the  4th  acquired  much 
hoTor.  The  loss  of  the  Indians  was  estin.ated 
at  150.  These  misguided  people  s-n  <.fter  sued 
fr  peace,  which  was  granted.  But  through  0^ 
nstgation  of  the  British,  the  Prophet  and  Te- 
ums'ehsoonafter  renewed  hostilities,  bymurd^r. 

,ng  several  families  on  the  frontiers     The  wot 

Xh  was  about  to  break  forth  m  t»"«  q""^/; 
roon  after  merged  into  more  important  evenU. 

t 


rroRV  Of  Tiin  iat»  ^*"* 

near  tt  branch  oflhe  Wabash  called 

,  Hinco  Income  famous.  On  h.8  ar- 
,  ,ntt  by  the  Prophet,  Wini.nac,  and 
.hicfH,  who  professed  to  bo  peaceably 

,„u..stcd  him  to  encamp  for  the  day 
•d  to  come  the  next  morning  and  hold 
r  peace.  W  ith  this  request  the  Go\  - 
,lied,  unsuspicious  of  their  treachery. 
orning,thelndiansk.donbyW.n.m.c 

.ssuilcd  the  ca»n.,  bavmg  kdled  the 
itharrows.  They  were  received  with 
ation,  but  were  not  repulsed  until  after 

conflict  of  two  hours,  in  which  the 
,  lost  upwards  of  180  in  killed  and 
anH,ng  whom  were  many  valuable  of- 

Davies,  one  of  the  first  men  in  Ken- 
.erhaps,  in  this  country,  was  among  the 

,lonelIk,yd  and  the  4th  acquired  much 
rhc  loss  of  the  Indians  was  estimated 
These  misguided  people  soon  after  sued 
,  which  was  granted.  But  through  the 
„  of  the  British,  the  Prophet  and  Te- 
Mjnafter  renewed  hostilities,  by  murder- 
ral  families  on  the  frontiers.  The  war 
tt3  about  to  break  forth  in  this  quarter, 

jr  merged  into  more  important  evente; 


nisToav  or  tiik  lath  wai. 


35 


and  which  it  is  the  busincsa  of  the  present  nar- 
mtive  to  detail. 


CHAPTKR  II. 


Declaration  of  Wnr— St:\i<>  iif  thr  Coiintey. 

The  Twelfth  Congress  continued  in  session 
long  beyond  the  u.s;i;il  tiiiu! of  ndjournment,  in 
consequence  of  the  crisis  which  was  thought  to 
be  approaching.  On  the  6lh  of  June,  1812,  Pro- 
vident Madison  liiiil  bcforo  Ooiigross  the  corros- 
pondcnco  of  our  Chiirgo  dVMlUircs  in  I.'^ndon, 
with  the  British  {government,  which  put  au  end 
tu  nil  hope  of  the  reponl  of  the  Orders  in  Coun- 
cil. Every  attempt  to  airimgn  the  nmltor  of  im- 
pressment had  ttlno  failed.  In  the  opinion  of  the 
President,  there  appeared  to  be  no  possible  mea- 
sure left  for  us  to  pursue,  but  a  Declaration  of 
f^nr. 
This  being  referred  to  the  Committee  of  Fo- 
ign  Relations,  they  drew  up  an  able  Report,  in 
hicha  full  view  was  taken  of  all  our  causes  of 
omplaint  against  Groat  Britain,  and  they  con- 
;urred  fully  in  the  opinion  of  the  President,  that 
lothing  was  left  but  an  appeal  to  arms. 
After  sitting  several  days  with  closed  doon^ 


26  HBTOBTi    OF  TOE   lATE  WAR. 

the  important  appeal  was  announced  on  the 
of  Juncandthe  next  day  war  was  formally 

daimed. 

For  thirty  years  our  favored  and  happy  < 
try  had  smiled  beneath  the  blessings  of  i 
and  prosperity.  With  the  exception  mde< 
the  distant  Algerine  war,  and  the  occasK,na 
tilities  on  the  remote  frontier.  It  was  ou^ 
national  war  since  the  declaration  of  mc 
dence,and  with  the  nation  from  whom  oui 
pendence  had  been  won.  We  considers 
appeal  to  arms  inevitable;  we  confided 
justice  of  our  cause,  and  trusted  to  heaven 

issue. 

The  means  provided  for  carrying  on  a  < 

with  one  of  the  most  powerful  nations 

globe  were  extremely  slender.  Our  army 

exceed  6000  men,  and  those  distributed 

surface  of  several  thousand  miles.     A  U 

passed  for  the  purpose  of  enlarging  it  to 

men;  but  little  or  no  progress  had  been  r 

enlistments.  Our  navy  consisted  of  afew  I 

and  smaller  vessels  of  war,  not  more  tha 

in  number,  while  that  of  the  enemy  exc 

thousand  ships.    Our  great  commercia 

were  not  yet  completely  fortified,  aithc 

some  years,  considerable  pains  had  been 


■n|imi>lji> 


BiBTOBIi    OF  TOE   lATE  WAR. 

important  appeal  was  announced  on  the  I8th 
uncandthe  next  day  war  was  formally  pro- 

nied. 

^or   thirty  years  our  favored  and  happy  coun- 

had  smiled  beneath  the  blessings  of  peace 
I  prosperity.    With  the  exception  mdeed,  of 

distant  Algerine  war,  and  the  occasional  ho. 
ties  on  the  remote  frontier.  It  was  our  first 
tionul  war  since  the  declaration  of  mdepen- 
ice,  and  with  the  nation  from  whom  our  mde- 
adence  had  been  won.  We  considered  the 
peal  to  arms  inevitable;  we  confided  to  the 
'tice  of  our  cause,  and  trusted  to  heaven  for  its 
lue. 


HI8T0BY   OF   TIIE   LATE  WAS. 


27 


fortify  them.  We  had  no  overflowing  treasury  to 
furnish  the  abundant  means  of  creating  the  ne- 
cessary force  and  supplies;  and  the  American 
people  had  been  burthencd  with  no  taxes. 

Great  Britain  had  laughed  at  th'-  idea  of  our 
going  to  war ;  our  confederation,  which  she  called 
a  rope  of  sand,  in  her  opinion,  wonltl  ciuinblc  at 
the  sound  of  the  war  trumpet.  Our  navy  was 
the  standing  butt  of  her  ridicule,  and  our  "  fir- 
built  frigates,"  the  subjects  of  her  continued  jests; 
"the  bits  of  striped  bunting,"  as  she  called  our 
glorious  flag,  now  resplendent  with  the  stars  of 
freedom,  would  soon  disappear  from  the  ocean. 
But  Providence  has  decreed,  that  the  keenest 
disappointments  shall  ever  attend  the  boastful 
and  vainglorious. 

The  Americans  looked  to  Canada  as  the  vul- 
nerable part  of  Great  Britain.  Whatever  intrin- 
sic value  this  province  might  be  to  her,  pride  at 
least,  would  render  it  an  object  worth  contending 


The  means  provided  for  carrying  on  a  contest 
ith  one  of  the  most  powerful  nations  on  the 
obe  were  extremely  slender.  Our  army  did  not 
cceed  5000  men,  and  those  distributed  over  a 
Kface  of  several  thousand  miles.  A  law  M 
Bssed  for  the  purpose  of  enlarging  It  to  26,00U  ,,  u 

but  little  or  no  progress  had  been  made  m  for.  To  us,  it  could  be  only  of  advantage  as  the 
riistments  Our  navy  consisted  of  afew  frigates  means  of  compelling  her  to  a  speedy  peace,  and 
nd  smaller  vessels  of  war,  not  more  than  thirty  securing  our  frontiers  against  the  murderous  In- 
"  number,  while  that  of  the  enemy  exceeded  Uians.  •  u  u   xr    *,  w    . 

1  d  hips  Our  great  commercial  towns  We  were  already  at  war  with  the  North  West- 
tZZt  yet  a.mpletely  fortified,  although  fci  „n  Indians;  such  troops  as  we  could  spare  had 
^Z  years,  considerable  pains  had  been  taken  tc  been  ordered  to  the  frontier,  with  the  double  view 


wAaMMMri 


.98 


HKTOBV   OF  THE   LATE  WAK. 


of  putting  an  end  to  those  hostilities,  and  to  be 
in  the  best  situation  for  striking  a  blow  at  Canada. 
It  was  well  known  that  there  were  no  great  pre- 
parations on  the  side  of  the  British,  and  it  was 
natural  to  suppose,  that  by  a  prompt  and  vigorous 
attack  on  the  unprotected  provinces,  we  should 
be  masters  of  the  whole  country  from  Niagara 
upwards.     This  would  effectually  cut  off  all  hope 
of  aid  to  the  British  from  the  Indians,  and  would 
enable  us  to  concentrate  our  forces  on  I  <^ke  On- 
tario, by  which  means,  with  the  aid  of  the  regu- 
lar  troops  in  that  quarter,  and  the  militia  of  New 
York,  Pennsylvania  and  Vermont,  Upper  Canada 
would  fall  in  the  course  of  a  few  months,  and  in  j 
the  spring  we  might  successfully  advance  against 

Quebec. 

■ ■ -i 

CHAPTER  III. 

Invasion  of  Canada  by  General  HuU-Battle.<rfB««mj. 
town  and  Maguaga-Hull  evacuate.  Canada-^irtwh 
faivaaou,  and  surrender  of  Hulf. 

HuiL,  the  Governor  of  the  Michigan  territory, 
who  had  been  a  distinguished  officer  during  the 
revolutionary  war,  having  bean  appointed  a  brig- 
adier in  the  service  of  the  United  States,  was  on 
his  march  to  Detroit,  the  capital  of  the  territory, 
at  the  moment  of  the  declaration  of  war.    His 


>,MW»<«<<X»iin'i'ii  ii*mi 


HISTOBV   OF  THE   LATE  WAK. 

an  end  to  those  hostilities,  and  to  be 
situation  for  striking  a  blow  at  Canada. 
11  known  that  there  were  no  great  pre- 
on  the  side  of  the  British,  and  it  was 
suppose,  that  by  a  prompt  and  vigorous 

the  unprotected  provinces,  we  should 
rs  of  the  whole  country  from  Niagara 

This  would  effectually  cut  off  all  hope 
he  British  from  the  Indians,  and  would 
1  to  concentrate  our  forces  on  I  <\ke  On- 
which  means,  with  the  aid  of  the  regu- 

I  in  that  quarter,  and  the  militia  of  New 
nnsylvania  and  Vermont,  Upper  Canada 

II  in  the  course  of  a  few  months,  and  in 
g  we  might  successfully  advance  against 


HISTOBY   OP  TOE   hATE  WAR. 


20 


CHAPTER  III. 

,f  Canada  by  General  HuU-Battle.<rfB2r^ 
nd    Maguaga-Hull  evacuate.  Canada-*iajh 

,  and  surrender  of  Hull. 

the  Governor  of  the  Michigan  territory, 
1  been  a  distinguished  officer  during  the 
mary  war,  having  bean  appointed  a  brig- 

the  service  of  the  United  States,  was  on 
ch  to  Detroit,  the  capital  of  the  territory, 
moment  of  the  declaration  of  war.    His 


force  consisted  of  about  two  thousand  men,  near- 
ly one  half  regulars,  the  remainder  volunteers 
from  the  state  of  Ohio,  and  well  supplied  with 
the  necessary  munitions  of  war.  On  reaching 
the  Rapids  ofMiami,  he  freighted  a  schooner  with 
the  principal  part  of  his  baggage,  that  his  march 
might  be  lightened;  but  to  his  astonishment,  the 
capture  of  the  vessel  which  soon  after  followed, 
gave  hi.nthe  first  intimation  of  the  existing  state 
of  hostilities,  and  it  was  not  until  shortly  before 
he  reached  Detroit,  that  he  received  the  official 
intelligence  of  the  formal  declaration.  The  Bri- 
tish, in  consequence  of  their  settlements  along 
the  Lake,  and  the  employment  of  swift  couriers, 
had  been  able  to  convey  the  information  several 
days  before  it  reached  the  American  posts.  From 
the  nature  of  our  government,  there  is  no  possi- 
bility of  knowing  with  certainty,  the  exact  time 
of  our  making  war,  until  its  actual  declaration; 
the  British  had,  therefore,  almost  as  early  intelli- 
gence of  it  as  our  executive.  It  is  also  said,  that 
the  American  messenger  was  somewhat  detain- 
ed by  an  unforseen  accident. 

The  arrival  of  Hull  was  little  more  than  in 
time  to  save  Detroit,  which  the  British  were  on 
the  point  of  attacking.  A  few  well  directed  shot, 
compelled  them  to  abandon  the  works  wliich  they 
C* 


ri.li  m Ill 


:n 


aO  HIBTOBY   OF  THE  LATE  WAB. 

y,ed  erected  on  the  opposite  Side  Of  the  me^ 
Hull,  who  had  discretionary  power  to  act  o^^^^ 
sivelv,  resolved  to  possess  himself  of  the  B„uh 
^  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  nver,  by  which 
ranrhewoXt  once  end  the  Indianwa^^^^ 
cut  off  all  communication  wUh  the  North  Wes 
establishments,  and  the  lower  Provmce^^he 

American  garnsons  and  forts  "'^  ^he  ^^^J" 
Mississippi:Lakes,&c.  would  m  such  events 

completely  protected.  By  obtammg  a  firrn  foot 
„Tin  this  country,  another  object  would  also  be 
^cured;  the  inhabitants,  chiefly  emigrant3  fron 
Te  United  States,  would  I.  induced  to  jointly 
American  svu.dard,  and  facilitate  tho  active  con 
ouest  of  the  country.  .     . 

On  the  12th  of  July,  Hull,  with  the  primpc 
part  of  his  forces,  crossed  the  river,  and  after 
Lble  opposition.,  took  possession  of  Saxdw. 
Here  he  issued  a  proclamation,  m  which  he  sf 
ted  his  force  to  be  sufficient  to  "look  down. 

opposition,-  threatening  destruction  without  me 
cv  to  all  who  should  be  found  fightmg  by  the  si 
of  anIndian,andofferingprotection  to  the  inh. 
itants  who  would  join  his  standard.  But  tl 
proclamation  was  followed  up  by  no  prompt  a 
vigorous  measures  against  the  British  garrisi 
which  at  this  time  was  in  no  condition  to  res 


HIBTOBY   OF  THE  LATE  WAR. 

ed  on  the  opposite  side  of  the  river. 
0  had  discretionary  power  to  act  offen- 
soWed  to  ps«ess  himself  of  the  Bnt.s. 
the  opposite  side  of  the  river,  by  which 
3  would  at  once  end  the  Indian  war  and 

dl  communication  with  the  North  West 
ments,  and  the  lower  Provinces^    Ihe 

„garnsons  and  forts  on  the  Wabash^ 
M,i;  Lakes,  &c.  would  in  such  event  be 

,ly  protected.  By  obtaining  a  firm  foet- 
us country,  another  object  would  also  be 
.  the  inhabitants,  chiefly  emigrants  from 
i'ted  States,  would  \ro  induced  to  jom  the 
^  siu.>dard,  and  facilitate  tho  active  con- 

r  the  country.  .     . 

he  12th  of  July,  Hull,  with  the  principal 

•his  forces,  crossed  the  river,  and  after  a 
opposition,  took  possession  of  Sandwich. 
,e  issued  a  proclamation,  in  which  he  sfa- 
,  force  to  be  sufficient  to  « look  down  all 
tion,''  threatening  destruction  without  mer- 
11  who  should  be  found  fighting  by  the  side 
ndian,  and  offering  protection  to  the  inhab- 
who  would  join  his   standard.     But  this 
tnmtion  was  followed  up  by  no  prompt  and 
3U8  measures  against  the  British  garrison, 
»  at  this  time  was  in  no  condition  to  resist 


HIBTOBT  OF  TUB  LATK  WAR. 


31 


a  vigorous  assault.  He  contented  himself  with 
detaching  Colonels  Cass  and  M' Arthur,  to  take 
possession  of  the  country  along  the  river  Thames, 
and  loitered  away  his  time  in  useless  skirmishes. 
A  sharp  skirmish  took  place  a  few  days  after  the 
landing,  at  the  river  Aux  Canards,  with  a  party 
of  the  enemy  stationed  to  guard  the  bridge,  which 
crossed  the  river  on  the  road  to  Maiden.  The 
enemy  was  compelled  to  retire,  with  the  loss  of 
eleven  killed  and  wounded;  but  the  passage  ap- 
peared to  be  gained,  with  no  other  view  than  be- 
ing  immediately  abandoned. 

Hull  now  concluded  that  Maiden  could  not  be 
taken  without  heavy  artillery,  and  a  regular 
siege;  and  in  consequence  sat  about  makiftg  pre- 
parations  which  ought  to  have  preceded  the  inva- 
sion While  his  proclamation  was  figurmg  away 
in  the  United  States,  and  every  day  was  expect- 
ed to  bring  the  news  of  the  taking  of  Maiden,  and 
the  vast  advantages  which'  would  necessarily 
follow;  this  General  was  fast  losing  the  confi- 
dence of  his  own  troops,  by  his  want  of  decision, 
and  by  his  incapacity  for  command.    It  appear- 
ed that  he  had  either  become  superannuated,  or 
that  his  merit  in  a  subordinate  station  during  the 
revolution,  was  no  just  criterion  of  his  talents  as 
&  leader.    The  British  officer.  General  Broke, 


..ij.'iiiiiiBi.iiiiim*"*'""^"'"" 


gS  HISTOBTT   or  THB  lATB  WAB. 

Who  was  a  man  of  talents,  was  not  long  in  know- 
^g  the  kind  of  adversary  he  had  to  deal  wUh 

and  from   being  at  first  apprehensive  that  he 

lid  not  withstand  the  great  supenonty^^^^^^^ 

American  force,  began  to  conce.vehope  of  be mg 

abTe  to  take  advantage  of  the  incapacity  of  the 

tmerL,  commenced  by  throwing  light  part- 

of"  guWs  and  of  Indians  under  the  cdebre.^ 

«  Tecumseh,  on  the  road  ^^^^^^^^^^^ 

of  Ohio  and  Detroit,  so  as  to  intercept  t^ie  Amer 

ican  supplies.     Hull  was  now  compelled  to  turr 

Tatten'tion  to  keeping  open  the  — ;-^- 

while  the  preparation  for  the  siege  of  Malde> 

advanced  at  a  snail's  pace. 

It  was  not  until  the  1st  of  August,  that  tw 
twenty-four  pounders  and  three  howUz^ 
were  mounted,  and  even  then,  he  appean 
atalosswhattodowiththem.    Dange-a^ 

difficulties,  appeared  --y  -"'"^"^e  ;^t 

around  him:  on  the   23d  of   July  he  receiv 

intelligence  that  Michilimackmac  had   surre 

dered  to  the  British.    Lieutenant  Hanks,  w 

commanded  this  important  fortress,  was  sudd 

,y  encompassed  by  a  body  of  the  enemy,  an. 

Jreat  number  of  the  Indians,  which  to  him  v 

The  first  intimation  of  hostilites.    As  it  w« 

vain  to  contend  agamst  so  great  a  supenont; 


HISTORY   or  THK  WTB  WAB. 

,  man  of  talents,  was  not  long  in  know- 
ind  of  adversary  he  had  to  deal  with, 

,  being  at  first  apprehensive  that  he 
t  withstand  the  great  superiority  of  the 
.  force,  began  to  conceive  hope  of  be.ng 

^ke  advantage  of  the  incapacity  of  the 
„,  commenced  by  throwing  light  parties 
ais  and  of  Indians  under  the  celebrated 
3cumseh,  on  the  road  between  the  state 
.„d  Detroit,  so  as  to  intercept  the  Amer- 
.plies.  Hull  was  now  compelled  to  turn 
In  to  keeping  open  the  commun^t^ 
he  preparation  for  the  siege  of  Maiden 

3d  at  a  snail's  pace. 

as  not  until  the  1st  of  August,  that  two 
.four  pounders  and  three  howitzers 
mounted,  and  even  then,  he    appeared 

,sswhatto  do  with  them.  D«"g"?  f"^^ 
ties,  appeared  every  moment  to  thicken 

I  him:  on  the  23d  of  July  he  received 
,erce  that  Michilimackinac  had  surren- 
to  the  British.  Lieutenant  Hanks,  who 
anded  this  important  fortress,  was  sudden- 
compassed  by  a  body  of  the  enemy,  and  a 
number  of  the  Indians,  which  to  him  was 
irst  intimation  of  hostilites.  As  it  was  in 
to  contend  agamst  so  great  a  superiority  o. 


UISTOHV   OF  THE  LATE  WAB. 


33 


force,  he  was  compolicdto  capitulate.  There 
being  nothing  now  to  keep  the  Indians  in  check, 
and  the  -  en  in  the  service  of  the  North  West- 
ern Fur  Company  being  collected,  a  considera- 
ble reinforcement  might  bo  expected  by  the 
British  General.  Hull  alarmed  at  the  danger 
of  his  situation,  which  was  greatly  augmented 
by  his  fours,  dispatched  a  messenger  for  assist- 
ance to  the  Governor  of  Ohio,  and  to  General 
Hull  commanding  at  Niagara.  The  astonishment 
excited  by  this  news  was  universal;  the  morn- 
ing which  had  been  so  fair  in  hope,  was  thus 
suddenly  obscured  with  bwering  darkness. 

To  a  man  of  mental  resource,  the  situation 
was  not  yet  desperate.    Tiio  force  of  Hull  was 
vastly  superior  to  that  of  the  British;  his  heavy 
cannon  was  at  last  prepared,  and  mounted  on 
floating  batteries;  and  the  American  officers  and 
soldiers   indulged  an   expectation   of  soon  at- 
tempting something,  to  merit  the  applause  of 
their  country.     The  day  was  actually  fixed 
for  the  meditated  attack,  but  to  the  inexpressible 
astonishment,  and  universal  indignation  of  the 
brave  Americans,  orders  were   given  by  this 
wretched  commander,  to  abandon  the  British 
side,  and  retreat  to  Detroit.    At  once   every 
hope  of  renown  was  dashed  from  them  and 


S4 


HIBTOST  OF  TH»  LATB  WA». 


they  had  before  their  eyes,  the  hatofu!  pro«pect 
of  becoming  the  scorn  of  their  country,  and  tlie 
ridicule  of    its  enemies.     The  British  general 
was,  at  the  same  time,  fully  confirmed  in  the 
opinion  which  ho  hod  formed  of  the  American 
commander.     Hull,  in  his  rlisgraceful  retreat, 
abandoned  to  the  mercy  of  the  British  the  delu- 
ded inhabitants  who  had  confided  in  his  pompoui 
offers  of  protection,  and  effectually  prevented 
any  further   co-oi)eration  on  the    part  of  the 
Canadians,  who  otherwise  might  have  been  in- 
duced to  join  the  United  States  to  assert  their 
independence.  • 

Shortly  before  this,  a  party  had  reached  the 
river   Raisin,  with  additional  supplies  for  the 
American    camp,  under  captain  Bush;  but  in 
consequance  of  the  road  being  infested  by  In- 
dians, were  obliged  to  halt,  and  wait  until  escort- 
ed by  a  sufficient  force.     A  detachment  of  160 
men  were  dispatched  under  Major  Vanhom,  who 
was  attacked  near  Browustowa,  by  a  superior 
force  of  th9  enemy,  and  after  a  sever*  contest, 
were  obliged  to  retreat  with  the  loss  of  19  kill- 
ed and  wounded;  of  the  former,  captains  Gil- 
crease,  McCuUuch,  and  Hostler,  of  the  latter, 
captain  Ulry. 
On  the  return  of  this  party,  it  was  deemed  an 


ob> 

to 

kn< 

ma 

an( 

vai 

sei 

po 

en 

rei 

Av 

Bi 

ad 

th 

CO 

bi 
b( 
k( 
M 
It 
1( 


c 


t  OF  TH»  LATB  WA». 

their  eyes,  the  hateful  pToapect 
scorn  of  their  country,  and  tlie 
enemies.    The  British  general 
e  time,  fully  confirmed  in  the 
,e  had  formed  of  the  American 
ull,  in  his  Hisgrticeful  retreat, 
B  mercy  of  the  British  the  delu- 
who  had  confided  in  his  pompoua 
;tion,  and  effectually  prevented 
>.oi)eration  on  the   part  of  the 
)  otherwise  might  have  been  in- 
le  United  States  to  assert  their 

re  this,  a  party  had  reached  the 
with  additional  supplies  for  the 
ip,  under  captain  Bush;  but  in 
r  the  road  being  infested  by  In- 
liged  to  halt,  and  wait  until  escort- 
ont  force.    A  detachment  of  IfiO 
atched  under  Major  Vanhom,  who 
near  Brownstowa,  by  a  superior 
inemy,  and  after  a  sevew  contest, 
to  retreat  with  the  loss  of  19  kill- 
ied;  of  the  former,  captains  Gil- 
lUuch,  and  Bostler,  of  the  latter, 

im  of  this  party,  it  wm  deemed  an 


HISTOBt  OF  THB  IJITB  WAX. 


35 


object  of  serious  consequence  to  make  an  etfort 
to   clear  the    road.     While   the  enemy,    well 
knowing  that  another  attei.^pt  would   soon  be 
made,  posted  a  much  larger  force  of  regulars 
and  Indians  at  a  place  called  Moguaga,  in  ad- 
vance of  the  former  scene  of  action.    For  this 
service,  which  had  now  became  of  the  first  im- 
portance, the  American  general  seleclod  the  vet- 
eran  Col.  Miller,  with  300  rcguhrs  of  the  4th 
regiment,  and  about  200  militia.    On  the  9lh  of 
August,  the  day  after  Hull  hod  evacuated  the 
British  territory,  the  gallant  Miller,  although 
advancing  with  great  caution,  was  attacked  by 
the  enemy  from  an  ambuscade.    His  advance 
guard  under  captain  Snelling,  was  suddenly  en- 
compassed on  all  sides  by  Indians  and  British, 
but  he  kept  them  off  until  succored  by  the  main 
body.    An   animated   action   took  place;  after 
keeping  up  a  warm  fire  for  some  time.  Colonel 
Miller  ordered  a  charge  upon  the  British  regu- 
lars, who  fought  under  cover  of  a  breast-work  of 
logs  and  trees.    They  were  immediately  routed; 
but  the  Indians  in  the  woods  under  Tecumseh, 
maintained   the  contest  for  some  time  longer. 
The  enemy  was  finally  compelled  to  retire,  and 
were  driven  to  their  boats,  in  which  they  pre- 
cipitately embarked.    The  American  loss  in  this 


9t  nwroBY  or  tiie  latb  wa«. 

affair  was  15  killed  nnd  60  wounded;  that  of  the 
British  about  the  sumc.  The  Americann  were 
su  much  Ihtigucd  by  this  action,  which  lasted 
three  hours,  that  they  halted  on  the  ground, 
and  the  next  day,  received  orders  from  Hull  to 
foturn  to  Detroit,  it  hod  been  resolved  to  open 
a  communication  with  Captain  Bush  through 
the  woods,  and  for  this  purpose  Colonels  Cass 
and  Miller  were  detached  with  a  strong  detach- 
ment of  400  men. 

By  this  time  the  British  general  had  resolved 
upon  the  bold  attempt  of  invading  the  American 
side,  and  attacking  Hull.  Ho  took  a  position 
opposite  Detroit,  and  on  the  15th,  sent  over  a 
flag,  demanding  in  form  the  surrender  of  the 
American  garrison,  in  which  he  magnified  his 
foite  in  regulars  and  Indians,  in  the  most  fright- 
ful manner.  Hull  returned,  however,  for  an- 
swer, that  the  place  would  be  defended  to  the 
last  extremity. 

The  next  day  the  enemy  were  discovered 
crossing  the  river  for  tho  purpose  of  attacking 
the  fort.  Hull  the  evening  before,  had  sent  to 
recall  by  forced  marches,  the  detachment  under 
Miller  and  f 'ass.  No  preparations  were  made 
by  him  to  oppose  the  landing  of  the  British 
troops,  but  tho  Americans  were  so  disposed  bc- 


h 

ir 

CI 

w 
th 
th 
et 
ac 
B 
in 
tit 
tic 
ca 
th 
th 

m; 
to 
th 
to 
h( 
ui 

V 
w 

of 

as 
th 
ai 


BY  or  TIIB  Uitm  WA«. 

lied  ond  60  wounded;  that  of  the 
jc  8umc.  The  AinericanH  were 
cd  by  thiB  action,  which  lasted 
liat  they  halted  on  the  ground, 
ly,  received  orders  from  Hull  to 
)it.  It  had  been  resolved  to  open 
on  with  Captain  Bush  through 
1  for  this  purpose  Colonels  Cass 
•c  detached  with  a  strong  detacli- 
ou. 

the  British  general  had  resolved 
ittcmpt  of  invading  the  American 
king  Hull.  He  took  a  position 
lit,  and  on  the  15th,  sent  over  a 
g  in  form  the  surrender  of  the 
risen,  in  which  he  magnified  his 
rs  and  Indirns,  in  the  most  fright- 
Hull  returned,  however,  for  an- 
I  place  would  be  defended  to  the 

lay  the  enemy  were  discovered 
iver  for  the  purpose  of  attacking 
I  the  evening  before,  had  sent  to 
3d  marches,  the  detachment  under 
aa.  No  preparations  were  nruide 
»posc  the  landing  of  the  British 
0  Americans  were  so  disposed  be- 


nidTOllT  or  THE  LATE  WA«.  87 

hind  the  pirkoting  and  fences  of  the  village,  and 
in  the  fort  an  to  annoy  their  advance.  On  nii 
eminence,  two  twenty-four  pounders,  charged 
with  gra|)c,  were  posted  in  a  situation  to  sweep 
the  advancing  columns  of  the  invndnr;  add  to 
this  the  detachment  out  on  duty,  might  be  expect- 
ed to  arrive  in  time  to  partake  of  the  action,  and 
assail  the  enemy  in  the  rear.  At  ten  o'clcx^k,  the 
British  force,  about  700  strong,  and  sonic  skulk- 
ing Indians,  were  seen  to  luivance  in  the  direc- 
tion in  which  they  would  meet  certain  destruc- 
tion; when  suddenly,  and  without  the  slightest 
cause,  the  American  commander  gave  orders  for 
the  troops  to  abandon  their  positions,  and  betake 
themselves  to  the  fort,  while  the  officers  com- 
manding the  heavy  artillery  were  enjoined  not 
to  fire.  In  the  midst  of  this  strange  suspense, 
the  British  still  continued  slowly  and  cautiously 
to  advance.  The  American  general  seemed  to 
have  lost  all  presence  of  mind,  and  to  have  been 
under  the  influence  of  the  most  unaccountable 
panic.  In  this  state  of  aifairs,  he  ordered  u 
white  flag  to  be  susi)ended  from  the  fort  in  token 
of  submission.  A  British  officer  who  rode  up  to 
ascertain  the  cause,  could  hardly  believe  it  until 
the  capitulation  was  made.  The  astonishment 
and  mortification  of  the  Americans  at  being  thus 


10  HI8T0HY   or  THE   lATl  WA». 

surrendered,  can  only  be  invigincl,  and  wa.  only 
etmallod  by  the  grief  which  ovornprcad  then 
country  when  it  carno  to  be  rnad.  known. 

The  British  were  put  iu  ,H>s8o8H.on  of  the 
whole  province,  with  all  the  public  Htores  and 
arms,  among  which  were  several  troph.es  of  the 
revolution.  The  American  general  was  alter- 
v/ards  tried,  and  condemned  to  sutler  death,  but 
in  consequence  of  his  advanced  years,  and  hi. 
revolutionary  services,  ho  was  pardoned. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

H«val  Affain.-Capt..re  of  the  Gurrier—Naval  VktoriM. 
No  soon.M-  was  the  war  declared,  than  our 
little  navy,  in  gallant  trim,  issued  in  separate 
ships,   or  small  squadrons,  from   the  differeiU 
ports ;  and  a  hundred  privateers  soon  after  darted 
upon  the  foe.    The  national  chagi  ui  had  scarce- 
ly worn  off,  when  the  general  attention  was  di- 
rected towards  the    x:ean.     It  was  not  long  be- 
fore the  trident  was  torn  from  the  grasp  of  Bri- 
tannia, and  the  red  cross  laid  at  the  feet  of  the 
victorious  America. 

Com.  Rodgers  put  to  .s   i  in  June,  and  steeroa 
in  pursuit  of  tha  West  India  convoy;  while  thus 


enga 

friga 

the 

oth« 

with 

woui 

burs 

Ihoi 

by  V 

was 

sevc 

T 

abf 

Hut 

a)n! 

she 

1 

thii 

ren 

oen 

and 

nat 

the 

edi 

tor 

to 

wii 


or  TUK   LATC  WAB. 

,nly  be  irmgino<l,  and  wa«  oa\y 
grief  which  overspread  theii 
amnio  be  inatlt  known, 
'crfl  put  iu  i)oss.;98ion  of    the 
with  all  the  public  8tore»  and 
ch  wore  several  trophies  of  the 
)  American  general  was  after- 
condemned  to  sull'or  death,  but 
of  his  advanced  years,  and  his 
r vices,  ho  was  pardoned. 


CHAPTER  IV. 

tiiie  of  the  Gurriere-Naval  VktoilM. 

OS  the  war  declared,  than  our 

gallant  trim,  issued  in  separate 

squadrons,  from   the  different 

idred  privateers  soon  after  darted 

riic  national  chagini  hadscarce- 

len  the  general  attention  wasdi- 

tho    icean.     It  was  not  long  be- 

was  torn  from  the  grasp  of  Bri- 

red  cross  laid  at  the  feet  of  the 

rica. 

rs  put  to  b  V  in  June,  and  steered 

,a  West  India  convoy;  while  thus 


RnroRY  or  th«  lati  war. 


39 


engaged  he  gave  chase  to  the  Belvidera,  a  British 
frigate,  leaving  his  squadron  in  the  rear.  But 
the  onei.iy  btung  a  faster  sailer,  and  having 
other  advantages,  effected  her  escape,  though  not 
without  loss.  The  commodore  received  a  severe 
wound  and  had  19  of  his  men  killed  by  the 
bursting  of  a  gun.  The  squadron  then  crossed 
the  Atlantic,— and  after  a  cruise  of  three  months, 
by  which  the  return  of  the  American  commerce 
was  much  facilitated,  arrived  at  Boston  with 
several  prizes. 

The  Es-fox  and  other  national  vessels  sailed 
abt-nt  the  same  tinKs.  The  Constitution,  captain 
Hull,  was  chased  during  two  days,  but  through 
mnaummatod  seamanship  of  this  commander, 
she  escaped. 

These  events  prepared  the  public  for  some- 
thing of  a  splendid  character,  but  the  occur- 
rence which  soon  after  took  place,  far  trana- 
cended  the  most  sanguine  hopes.  In  the  skill 
and  gallantry  of  our  naval  commanders,  the 
nation  reposed  the  highest  confidence,  but 
they  had  not  yet  been  matched  with  the  boart- 
ed  lords  of  the  seas.  The  British  looked  to  vic- 
tory with  the  confidence  of  a  people  habituated 
to  conquer.  They  seemed  to  have  no  alher 
wish  than  to  prevail  on  the  Americans  to  w.«et 


40 


HISTORY  OF  THE  LATK  WAS. 


them.    Better  for  them  that  meeting  had  never 
taken  place.    The  Guerriere,  one  of  the  finest 
frigates  that  ever  ^giiled  upon  the  ocean,  vaun- 
tingly  displayed  her  pendant  with  a  variety  of 
insulting  mottos,  before  the  American  harbors. 
Her  commander  began  to  fear  that  no  foe  could 
Ijt  found  Svifficiently  rash  to  encounter  him.     On 
the  memorable  19th  of  September,  the  Consti- 
tution hove  in  sight;  with  satisfaction  the  Briton 
Ixiheld  her  bearing  down,  her  ensign  streaming 
m  the  breeze,  and  backed  his  topsails  to  wait 
her  approach.    For  some  time,  they  tried  each 
other's   skill  in   naval   manoeuvcring ;  but  the 
Guerriere  finding  that  nothing  was  to  be  gained 
in  this  way  poured  out  her  broadsides.    Great 
was  her  wonder  to  find  them  not  returned.  Seve- 
ral of  Hull's  brave  fellows  had  fallen.    The  souls 
of  the  Americans  were  on  fire;  still  they  calmly 
waited  the  orders  of  their  commander.    That 
moment  pregnant  with  so  much  glory  to  them- 
selves and  their  country,  came  at  last.    Sailing- 
master  Aylwin  had  admirably  seconded  the  views 
of  the  commander,  and  orders  were  given  to  fire 
broadside  after  broadside  in  quick  succession. 
The  work  was  uone  as  if  by  the  thunderbolts  of 
Jove.    In  fifteen  minutes  the  proud  frigate  was 
a  wreck;  in  fifteen  more  her  flag  came  down, 


TORY  OF  THE  LA.TB  WAB. 

r  for  them  that  meeting  had  never 
The  Guerriere,  one  of  the  finest 
ever  ^iled  upon  the  ocean,  vaun- 
lyed  her  pendant  with  a  variety  of 
ittos,  before  the  American  harbors, 
dcr  began  to  fear  that  no  foe  could 
iciently  rash  to  encounter  him.    On 
ble  19th  of  September,  the  Consti- 
n  sight;  with  satisfaction  the  Briton 
rearing  down,  her  ensign  streaming 
;c,  and  backed  his  topsails  to  wait 
11.    For  some  time,  they  tried  each 
I  in   naval   manceuvering ;  but  the 
nding  that  nothing  was  to  be  gained 
poured  out  her  broadsides.    Great 
nder  to  find  them  not  returned.  Seve- 
brave  fellows  had  fallen.    The  souls 
ricans  were  on  fire;  still  they  calmly 
orders  of  their  commander.     That 
3gnant  with  so  much  glory  to  them- 
iheir  country,  came  at  last.    Sailing- 
(vin  had  admirably  seconded  the  views 
mander,  and  orders  were  given  to  fire 
after  broadside  in  quick  successicai. 
was  aoneas  if  by  the  thunderbolts  of 
fifteen  minutes  the  proud  frigate  was 
in  fifteen  more  her  flag  came  down, 


HBTOHY  OF  THE  LATE  WAK. 


41 


and  the  vessel  was  on  the  point  of  sinking. — 
"Free  trade  and  sailor's  right V"  triumphed 
over  the  tyrants  of  the  sea. 

Great  was  the  disproportion  between  the  kill- 
ed and  wounded  of  the  adverse  frigates.    The 
Guerriere  had  16  killed  and  60  wounded;  the 
Constitution,  7  killed  and  7  wounded.    One  hour 
after  the  American  would  have  been  ready  to  try 
the  fortune  of  arms  with  another  Englishman. 
The  deportment  of  the  Americans  to  their  pris- 
oners, was  the  most  generous  and  humane:  the 
prize  was  burnt  and  blown  up,  it  being  quite 
impossible  to  bring  her  in.    After  making  n  few 
captures  the  Constitution  returned  on  the  22d  of 
September.  The  news  of  this  glorious  aflair 
spread  on  the  wings  of  the  wind.    Full  Indeed, 
was  our  recompense  for  past  misfortunes.    All 
the  circumstances  of  this  unparalleled  combat 
were  of  the  most  pleasing  kind.    As  some  re- 
ward for  this  signal  service  to  his  country,  Hull 
was  presented  with  the  freedom  of  all  the  cities 
through  which  he  passed  on  his  way  to  the  seat 
of  government,  and  on  the  meeting  of  Congress, 
a  liberal  allowance  made  to  himself  and  his  crew, 
inconsequence  of  his  inaMity  to  bring  the  ene- 
my's ship  into  port. 
From  this  time  to  the  close  of  the  war,  the 
D* 


^  Him«T  0»  THE  lATB  VAB. 

.        n-n  newspapers  were  filled  with  accounts 

CrerpX^rformed  both  in  private  and 

o,  naval  «P'°'    ^       ^       -^  poster,  in  the 

«;id  ™  »  the  po»<  «f  engaging  .fn8«. 

The  presto.  «uled  .g-n  .n  O*!"' '^. 
«r  J.he  BritUh  frig.»  S«uUow,".h  MO^ 

S^l,he^»»iron,.«.l"f»""»^,^ 

rTrThf  gallant  commodore  Decatur, 

foThe  Sgate'u':it^  States,  added  another  U. 
"itthXwhich  already  graced  his  brow^n 

1  25th  of  October  he  fell  in  with  the  Maced^ 

rltain  Garden,  a  British  frigate  of  the 

"CsS     Theen'gagen^ntl^^twoH^urB 

uTSnsequence  of  the  roughness  of  the  sea.  The 
VTle  American  was  so  remarkable,  that 
Te  enemy  at  one  moment  thought  her  on  fee. 
UenTZ  Funk  and  Allen  were  highly  d«tm- 
^  r^n  this  affair:  the  former  unhappUy  re. 


ceiv< 

reac 

ceiv( 

A 

anni 

a  rr 

Wa 

gun 

sorr 

cha 

Wt 

the 

can 

usi 

ho» 

iml 

wa 

aft 

we 

sh 

cu 

de 


OF  THB  lAT*  ^*^' 

,ers  were  filled  with  accounts 

jerformed  both  in  private  and 

els.    Captain  Porter,  in  the 

ntttnnercutoutabrigfroma 

1  on  board  14,000  dollars  m 
Idiers.    He  afterwards  captur- 
ch  was  in  search  of  the  Horn- 
ihe  point  of  engaging  a  frigate 
irated  by  the  approach  of  night, 
IS  she  had  disappeared, 
sailed  again  in  October,  and 
ish  frigate  Swallow,  with  200,- 

ard.  The  Arguswhich  had  part- 
dron,  was  also  fortunate.  She 
valaable  prizes,  and  after  vari- 
ipes,  arrived  at  last  in  safety  at 
t»e  gallant  commodore  Decatur, 
Jnited  States,  added  another  lau- 
:h  already  graced  his  brow.  On 
oberhefellinwiththeMacedo- 

^arden,  a  British  frigate  of  the 
rhe  engagement  lasted  two  hours 

of  the  roughness  of  the  sea.  Ihe 

wrican  was  so  remarkable,  that 
one  moment  thought  her  on  fire, 
nk  and  Allen  were  highly  distiu- 
,  afiair:  the  former  unhappily  re- 


HIBTORV  OF  THE  LATE  WAS. 


43 


ceived  a  mortal  wound.  The  Commodore  safely 
reached  New  York  with  his  prize,  and  was  re- 
ceived by  the  applause  of  his  country. 

Another  naval  victory  was  some  time  after 
announced,  won  after  a  short,  but  to  the  enen.y 
a  most  sanguinary  conflict.    Capt.  Jones  of  the 
Wasp,  a  sloop  of  war,  fell  in  with  the  Frohc,  22 
guns.  Cap.  Whinyates.    The  superiority  was 
somewhat  on  the  side  of  the  Briton.    At  first  the 
chance  appeared  in  his  favor;  the  riggmg  ot  the 
Wasp  had  sufiered  in  a  gale  the  day  before,  and 
the  roughness  of  the  sea  prevented  the  Amen- 
cans  from  bringing  their  guns  to  bear  with  their 
usual  effect.    The  engagement  lastel  nearly  an 
hour;  the  vessels  gradud'.y  "««ri;.g  each  other 
nntU  the  rammerf  touched  their  sides;  th--  I-  rolic 
was  at  length  taken  by  boardinr,  in  forty  minutes 
after  they  came  to  close  quarters  the  An.  ncans 
were  in  possession.    Her  decks  exhibited  a  most 
shocking  spectacle;  her  rigging  had  been  much 
cut  up,  and  both  decks  were  strewed  with  the 
dead  and  wounded. 

The  Americans  on  this  occasion,  displayea 
their  characteristic  humanity.  The  loss  on  board 
the  Frolic  was  30  killed  and  50  wounded:  that  ot 
the  Wasp  was  only  6  killed  and  5  wounded. 
Both  these  vessels  were  some  days  afterwards 


41  HISTORY  OF  THE  lATB  WAS. 

captured  by  the  Poictiers  74,  Captain  Bererford 
Ne  er  wi  any  war  so  wonderfully  successful 
^  that  waged'against  the  Goliath  of  the  ocea. 
The  first  year  of  the  war  was  a  continued  series 
of  naval  victories.  In  a  few  months  the  enemy 
L  upwards  of  two  hundred  and  fifty  merchan 

vessels,  two  of  her  frigates^nd  several  smaUer 
public  vessels.    In  Great  Britain,  the  marvellous 
Seeds,  at  first  disbelieved,  soon  produced  a  deep 
ohagrin  and  even  dismay.    The  mam  pUlar  of 
ir  strength  was  torn  away.    Unwilling  to  a^ 
knowledge  the  superiority  of  the  new  enemy, 
I  soulht  to  derive  herself  by  the  Id  ee^- 
mates  of  the  comparative  force,  and  by  th*  m 
vention  of  fancied  mishaps:  had  we  lived  m^ 
age.  of  superstition,  it  would  have  been  attributed 

to  magic.  ^^ 

On  the  Lakes,  those  interior  seas,  whose  bor- 
ders are  destined  to  become  the  joyful  residence 
of  millions  of  our  fellow  creatures,  there  appear- 
ed to  be  an  approaching  naval  struggle.    The 
Caledonia  and  the  brig  Adama,  loaded  with  furs, 
had  come  down  the  Lake  early  in  October,  and 
anchored  under  the  guns  of  the  British  fort- 
Lieut.  Elliot  of  the  navy,  who  had  some  short 
time  before  arrived  with  a  number  of  our  brave 
tars  in  order  to  provide  a  naval  force,  early  m 


"laM 


u 
I 


OF  THE  lATB  WAS. 

ictiers  74,  Captain  Beresford. 
ar  so  wonderfully  successful 
linst  the  Goliath  of  the  ocean, 
lie  war  was  a  continued  series 
In  a  few  months  the  enemy 
^o  hundred  and  fifty  merchant 
51-  frigates  .end  several  smaller 
X  Groat  Britain,  the  marvellous 
believed,  soon  produced  a  deep 
,  dismay.  The  main  pillar  of 
torn  away.  Unwilling  to  ac- 
aperiority  of  the  new  enemy, 
ceive  herself  by  the  idle  esti- 
nparative  force,  and  by  th«  m- 
Bd  mishaps:  had  we  lived  in  an 
,n,  it  would  have  been  attributsd 

,  those  interior  seas,  whose  bor- 
i  to  become  the  joyful  residence 
r  fellow  creatures,  there  appear- 
)roaching  naval  struggle.    The 
le  brig  Adama,  loaded  with  furs, 
the  Lake  early  in  October,  and 
the  guns  of  the  British  fort.— 
the  navy,  who  had  some  short 
ived  with  a  number  of  our  brave 
0  provide  a  naval  force,  early  in 


HISTORY  OF  TH«   lATK  WAB. 


45 


the  morning,  slipped  down  with  some  of  his 
gallant  fellows,  boarded  and  carried  the  two 
vessels.  In  ten  minutes  afterwards  he  was 
under  way;  but  the  Adams  unfortunately  ran 
aground  before  he  could  secure  her,  the  other 
however,  was  safely  brought  off,  and  was  found 
to  have  on  board  200,000  dollars  worth  of  furs. 


CHAPTER  V. 

lattle  of   Queen.town-Genetal   Smythe   assume,   con^ 
raaiid-Colonel  Pike's  incursion. 

During  the  summer  and  autumn,  a  considera- 
ble  force  was  collected  along  the  Niagara,  con- 
sisting of  regulars  and  militia,  occupying  the 
best  position  for  following  up  the  blow  to  be 
struck  by  Hull.    The  spirit  of  the  nation  had  re- 
covered from  the  mortifying  occurrence  already 
detailed,  while  the  success  of  our  navy  had  awa- 
kened in  the  breast  of  every  American  an  ar- 
dent wish  to  restore  the  honor  of  the  country. 
An  incident  which  occurred  in  this  quarter  kin- 
dled this  ardor  to  its  utmost  height;  this  was  the 
capture  of  the  British  vessels  on  the  Lake,  which 
we  have  related  in  the  last  chapter.    The  Amer- 
ican forces  now  commanded  by  General  Van 
Rensselaer,  besought  him  to  lead  them  agamst 


0  BIBTOBY  OF  THE   SATK  WAB. 

the  enemy.  Unwilling  to  damp  their  ardor,  and 
at  the  same  time  flattering  himself  w.th  the  hope 
of  being  able  to  seize  the  opposite  shore,  and  by 
that  means  intercept  the  communication  of  the 
enemy  above,  as  .ell  as  with  the  lower  Pjm- 

ces,  and  also,  materially  assist  the  force  of  the 
West,  about  to  rally  and  expel  the  mvaders  of 

our  territory.  , 

Accordingty,  on  the  12th  ofOctober,  the  corps 

composing  the  van  of  the  invading  army,  CO. 

sisting  of  three  hundred  men,  under  Col.  Van 
Ransilaer   and  Col.  Christie,  with   about  the 
same  number  of  regulars,  a  detachment  of  in- 
fantry under  Major  Mulaney,  and  the  artillery 
of  Col.  Fenwick,  made  good     .r  landing  m  the 
face  of  the  enemy's  batteries,  uud  rapidly  storm- 
„g  the  enemy's  height,  possessed  themselves 
completely  of  the  Canada  shore.    The  troops 
of  Buffalo  and  Lewistown  had  been  marched  for 
the  purposes  of  crossing  over  when  this  couW 
be  effected,  in  order  to  secure  what  should  be 

^Coltnel  Van  Rensselaer  was  severely  wound- 
ed, almost  as  soon  as  he  h^  landed;  but  with 
undaunted  firmness  he  still  continued  to  give  or- 
ders. About  the  time  of  crossing,  they  were 
joined  by  Colonel  Scott,  who  made  a  rapid 


or  THE   SATK  WAB. 

ilUng  to  damp  their  ardor,  and 
altering  himself  with  the  hope 

Bize  the  opposite  shore,  and  by 
jept  the  communication  of  the 
well  as  with  the  lower  Pipvin- 
iterially  assist  the  force  of  the 
illy  and  expel  the  invaders  of 

„  the  IZlhofOctober,  the  corps 
an  of  the  invading  army,  con- 
hundred  men,  under  Col.  Van 
Col.  Christie,  with   about  the 
,f  regulars,  a  detachment  of  in- 
ajor  Mulaney,  and  the  artillery 
,  made  good     er  landing  in  the 
ny's  batteries,  uud  rapidly  storm- 
's height,  possessed  themselves 
;hc  Canada  shore.    The  troops 
Lewistown  had  been  marched  for 
f  crossing  over  when  this  could 
order  to  secure  what  should  be 

Rensselaer  was  severely  wound- 
soon  as  he  hod  landed;  but  with 
iness  he  still  continued  to  give  or- 
the  time  of  crossing,  they  were 
lonel  Scott,  who  made  a  rapid 


HIBTOBY  OF  THB  LATB  WAB. 


47 


march  with  his  artillery,  in  order  to  share  the 
honors  of  the  day.     The  British  were  driven  in 
dU  directions,  but  soon  after  returned  with  large 
reinforcements  of  regulars  and  Indians,  led  by 
Gen.  Brock  in  person,  nearly  three  times  the 
numbers  of   the  Americans.     This   additional 
force  was  fiercely  withstood,  and  compelled  to 
retire  with  disgrace.    The  British  general,  mor- 
tified ot  the  conduct  of  his  troops,  led  them  a 
second  time  to  the  charge;  but  while  in  the  act 
of  urging  them  on.  fell  mortally  wounded,  and 
they  once  more  gave  way.    It  was  now  four 
o'clock:  three  times  had  the  foe  been  routed;  all 
that  was  requisite  to  complete  the  business  of  the 
day,  was  for  the  volunteers  on  the  opposite  sh.  -e 
to  cross  over  and  reap  the  laurels  w^icl-  had 
been  won.    The  General  crossed  ovc-  for  this 
purpose,  but  what  pen  can  describe  the  vexation 
which  filled  his  heart  when  he  found  that  they 
had    constUtdional  objections  to  crosssing   the 
straight !    No  persuasions  could  prevail  on  them. 
On  one  page  of  this  afiair  Americans  will  dwell 
with  delight;  from  the  next  they  will  turn  with 
disgust.    The  regulars  and  volunteers  on  the 
Canada  side  waited  in  vain  for  the  aid  of  their 
comrades.    The  clouds  of  war  were  once  more 
gathering  around  them.    The  enemy  returned 


HOTOBT  OF  THB  IJiT«  WA*. 


P^     4 


to  the  combat  goaded  by  shame,  by  rage,  and 
the  hope  of  subduing  numbers  so  inferior,  tor 
an  hour  the  fight  raged  with  unexampled  fury; 
a  few  of  the  Americans  attempted  to  retreat  to 
their  own  shore,  but  the  gre||er  part  were  at  last 
compelled  to  yield  to  overwhelming  numbers. 

The  American  officers  were  highly  distm- 
guished.  General  Wardsworth,  of  the  volun- 
teers, Colonels  Van  Rensselaer,  and  Christie, 
were  much  applauded,  as  also  Captams  Wool, 
Gibson,  Ogilvie,  Armstrong,  and  many  others. 
About  60  were  killed,  100  wounded,  and  about 
1000  taken  prisoners.  The  British  49th  regi- 
ment, called  "the  invincibles,"  formed  a  part  of 
their  force.  The  loss  of  the  enemy  was  very 
considerable  in  killed  and  wounded. 

On  the  fall  of  Gen.  Brock,  Gen.  Sheaffe  suo 
ceeded  to  the  command.    In  many  things  he 
was  wanting  in  regard  to  the  duties  of  humani- 
ty which  might  have  been  expected  from  a  gene- 
rous   enemy.     He  imposed  no  restraint   upon 
the  savages,  who  were  permitted  to  practice  their 
horrid  treatment  to  the  dead  and  wounded.    Da- 
ting the  funeral  of  General  Brock,  minute  guns 
were  fired  from  the  American  fort  as  a  testi- 
mony of  respect  for  the  character  of  a  brave 
enemy. 


Ii  w 

Ai 

Canadi 

ous  th 

tained 

well  h 

jwign 

I'erent 

Int 

nonadi 

on  the 

bie  ex 

|compa 

Th. 

I  resign 

I  Army 

I  but  wl 

I  si  reus 

I  his  pi 

Itions 

Ida  sh( 

it  wa 

grout 

attem 

select 

ed  a  ] 

quart 


ibv         .' 


or  THK  LATB  WAS. 

ed  by  shame,  by  rage,  and  by 
,ng  numbers  so  inferior.    For 
raged  with  unexampled  fury; 
•icans  attempted  to  retreat  to 
lit  the  greyer  part  were  at  last 
to  overwhelming  numbers, 
officers  wore   highly  distin- 
,1  Wardsworth,  of  the  volun- 
an  Rensselaer,  and  Christie, 
luded,  as  also  Captains  Wool, 
Armstrong,  and  many  others, 
illed,  100  wounded,  and  about 
mers.     The  British  49th  regi- 
I  invincibles,"  formed  a  part  of 
e  loss  of  the  enemy  was  very 
illed  and  wounded. 
Gen.  Brock,  Gen.  Sheaffe  sue- 
ommand.    In  many  things  he 
regard  to  the  duties  of  humani- 
have  been  expected  from  a  gone 
He  imposed  no  restraint   upon 
)  were  permitted  to  practice  their 
t  to  the  dead  and  wounded.    Du- 
of  General  Brock,  minute  guns 
n  the  American  fort  as  a  testi- 
3t  for  the  character  of  a  brave 


HISTORY   OF   TUG    LAT£  WAR. 


49 


Ii  was  a  most  unfortunulo  cirouuistuuco  that 
the  Americans  I'ailcd  la  tiioir  ulteuipt  on  the 
Canada  shore.  It  became  uflur wards  lliu  glori- 
ous theatre  of  Anioiicuii  valor;  but  had  wo  ob- 
tained possession,  the  troops  would  have  been 
well  housed  for  the  winter,  and  the  spring  cain- 
i)aign  would  liuvo  opcuud  willi  ro:juits  very  dif- 
ferent from  thoso  which  foUowoU. 

In  the  course  of  this  purticolurod  day,  a  can- 
nonade was  kept  up  from  the  forts  and  batterius 
on  the  opposite  sides  of  the  '.valor.  Considera- 
ble exfecution  was  done  by  the  Americans,  with 
comparatively  trifling  injury  by  the  enemy. 

The  command  of  this  force  was  soon  after 
resigned  to  General  Smythe,  of  tho  United  States 
Army,  an  officer  who  stood  high  as  a  tactician, 
but  who  had  not  shewn  himself  in  the  field.     I^- 
sirous  of  contrasting  his  talonts  with  those  of 
his  predeccs;-ior,  he  set  about  making  prepara- 
tions for  a  more  successful  invasion  of  the  Cana- 
da shore  before  the  close  of  the  season,  although 
it  was  now  far  advanced.     On  examining  tho 
ground  he  fancied  that  the  failure  of  the  former 
attempt  was  to  be  attributed  to  tho  injudicious 
selection  of  the  place  of  landing.     He  first  issu- 
ed a  proclamation  calling  on  volunteers  from  all 
nuarters,  and  on  the  17th  of  November,  announ- 
'  3  R 


mm 


hibtobvoftb«»^t.Va«. 

,  to  the  army  of  the  centre,  his  intention  of 
cedto  ^»»«."'"y  .^,  u  was  not,  however, 
"TtLtth"  November,  that  all  thing, 
„„Ul   the    28th   01  enterprise.- 

river.  ...Irinr  wav  in  ten 

At  three  o'clock  they  got  under  wa. 

U»  enemy  apprized,  and  aeluaUy  ope 
i,„i,  U  hero  cxceedmgly  rapiu.     i"" 

r::trarrand«edprecipita.lyf^n>H 
^u  leaving  all  the  batteries  undefended.    Th 
CsS  returned  to  the  American  side  b 
5^    rl^^  produced  a  suspense  in  the  mmd 

i:  (Ln'Tral,  in  consequence  of  his  ignorance  o 


the  fate 

their  lar 

Twol 

ed  impa 

mander 

number 

ceed  as  I 

to  dawn 

woH  gri 

Iscarcelj 

prisonei 

was  lesc 

in  the 

induced 

Genera 

prosecu 

fhcrefo 

ihe  dia 

his  oo 

he  sta 

ulty  t 

ng  his 

lempt. 

On 

^uall 

lead 

brocee' 


JF  TB»  »»**■  ''*■• 

f  the  centre,  his  intention  of 
^ada  It  wua  not,  however, 
f  November,  that  all  things 
,r  t»io  intended  enlerpriso.- 
ono  under  Colonel  Winder, 
or  Colonel  Bojrrstler,  were  to 

to  seize   the  batteries,   and 
Lhe  main  body  should -pass  the  I 

,k  they  got  under  way  In  ten 
roaching  the  shore,  they  found 

zed,  an.l  actually  opened  a  fire 
of  their  batteries.  The  greater 
din-r  force  was  compelled  to  put 
:en^rri.d  down  by  the  current 

.xceedingly  rapid.    Two  -mall 
,ne  effected  a  landing,  one  under 

ho  other  under  Captain  Kmg,  at 

from  each  oth.r;  but  making  a 
i  at  the  8a.no  tiiae  raising  a  shout, 
re  induced  to  believe  that  the  in- 

^  was  occupied  by  the  whole 
^,  and  fled  precipitately  from  the. 

tU  the  batteries  undefended,  i  ^ 
eturnedtotheA.noricanside,b; 
roduced  a  suspense  in  the  mmdo 
a  consequence  of  his  ignorance" 


HIBTORY   OF  TUB    LATB   WAB. 


51 


the  fate  of  the  handful  of  men  who  had  effected 
their  landing. 

Two  thousand  men  who  were  embarked,  wait- 
ed impatiently  for  orders  to  move,  but  the  com- 
mander   still    hesitated    what  to  do.     An  equal 
number  paraded  on  the  shore  in  readiness  to  pro- 
ceed as  a  reserve.     In  the  mean  li.no  day  began 
to  dawn,  and  the  enemy  having  8U|>erior  force, 
was  greatly  astonished  to  find  the  invading  foe 
[scarcely  exceeded  thirty  men,  who  were  made 
[prisoners  of  war.     The  British  force  collected 
was  less  than  600  men,  but  concealing  themselves 
,in  the  woods,  and  winding  their  bugles  lustily, 
induced  a  belief  their  numbers  were  very  great. 
General   Smytho  concluding,  that  any  further 
prosecution  of  this  invasion  would  be  useless, 
therefore  announced  its  abandonment,  greatly  to 
Ihe  dissatisfaction  of  the  troops  who  were  on 
lis  occasion  earnestly  desirous  of  wiping  away 
Ihe  stain  of  former  disgrace.    It  was  with  diffi- 
ilty  that  he  could  calm  their  minds  by  dcclar- 
ig  his  intention  of  making  a  more  effectual  at- 

!mpt. 

On  the  Tuesday  following,  the  troops  were 

tually  embarked,  and  General  Porter  who  was 

lead  the  van,  anxiously  waited  the  orders  to 

(roceed.    Every  thing  promised  success,  as  far 


as 


J 


HIBTOBY    OK  TU«   I^T«   WAH 

a.  depended  on  the  good  con.luct  of  the  troops. 
Suddenly,  to  the  ostonUhment  of  the  whole  ar- 
my, orders  were  issued  by  tho  Ooneral,  annouu- 
c4  his  intention  of  renouncing  tho  invumon  for 
the    season,   and  to   retire    into  winter  quar- 
ters. The  discontent  of  the  An.erican  volunteer, 
thus  disappointed,  was  not  confined  to  .nurmurs; 
,nany  threatened  tho  life  of  the  General,  w)>o 
was  conMH^lled  to  place  a  guard  near  hm  iK,rHon 

for  his  safety. 

The  General,  arter  cndeavornig  to  entabhsh 
his  courage  and  prudence  by  challenging  Gene- 
ral Porter  of  the  New  York  volunteers,  thought 
proper  to  retire  from  tho  command.  He  w.lh- 
Srew  to  his  seat  in  Virginia,  where  he  was  per- 
mitted to  remain  quietly  during  the  remainder 

of  the  war. 

The  forces  collected  on  the  St.  Lawrence, 
with  the  exception  of  some  slight  skirmishe^ 
did  little  worthy  of  being  recorded.  On  the  l.fth 
of  October,  Colonel  Pike,  a  promising  and  rising 
officer,  already  highly  esteemed  as  an  enterpri- 
sing and  chivalrous  soldier,  made  an  incursion 
into  Canada,  defeated  a  body  of  British  and  In 

.1        1   .ntiifnoH  Witl 


AfTiiii 

\Vi 

molar 

of  nc 

chagi 

of  th 

ihe  I 

actioi 

was 

conqi 

univ< 

port, 

rollei 

a  sir 

privi 

In 

rend 

shou 

troo] 

sion 

nam 


into  Uanaaa,  ueiuuiuu  «  u^j  «.  --- 

dians,  destroyed  a  block-house  and  returned  witk  milH 


only  five  men  wounded 


com 
ash 
teml 


M 


ir   OF  TUB   tAT«  WAS- 

ll,o  good  conduct  of  tho  troops. 
J  ustonishment  of  the  whole  ar- 
issued  by  the  Guneral,  aimoun- 
„  of  renouncing  tho  invusion  for 
„1  to  retire  into  winter  quar- 
ntent  of  the  American  volunteers  I 


llfSTOBV   or  T1IE   IAT«   WAI. 


53 


4       CIIAPTKR  VI. 

Affttiii  of  the  Weit— MovBiiients  of  (k-noral  HnntUon. 
We  return  to  tlic  ulliiirs  of  tho  West,  after  tho 
melancholy  surrender  of  Hull.  Nearer  the  scene 
"rwarnorcimfined  to  nmmuirsJ  of  notion,  tlu;  Western  Htute.s  were  more  deeply 
.d  tho  life  of  the  General,  w)io|  chagrined  than  other  parts  of  the  Union.  Many 
to  place  a  guard  near  his  iH)rHon|of  their  citizens  had  Iwen  compelled  to  share  in 

"the  burthen  of  the  heavy  disgrace.     In  the  re- 
action of  the  i)ublic  feelings,  an  enthusiastic  spirit 
was  enkindled,  and  the  desire  of  regaining  the 
conquered  territory  and  of  avenging  the  insult, 
universally  prevailed.     At  Louisville,  and  New- 
port, larg(!  bfxlies  of  volunteers  were  continually 
collecting:  in  the  state  of  Ohio,  at  several  points, 
a  similar  alacrity  had  collected  large  bodies  of 
private  citizens  who  had  suddenly  taken  up  arms. 
Indeed,  tho  numlwrs  flocking  to  the  places  of 
rendezvous,   rendered  it  necessary  that  orders 
should  be  issued  to  prevent  the  assemblage  of 
troops  so  far  exceeding  the  necessities  of  tho  occa- 
sion; whole  companies  were  dismissed  as  super- 
numerary.   General  Harrison,  the  most  popular 


,1,  oftcr  endeavoring  to  entablish 
,d  prudence  by  challenging  (Jenc- 
lic  New  York  volunteers,  thought 
re  from  tho  command.  He  with- 
at  in  Virginia,  where  he  was  pi  r- 
ain  quietly  during  the  remainder 


collected   on   the  St.  Lawrence 
cption  of  some  slight  skirmishes 
,y  of  being  recorded.     OnthelOth 
,lonel  Pike,  a  promising  and  rising 
ly  highly  esteemed  as  an  entcrpri- 
mlrous  soldier,  made  an  incursion 

defeated  a  body  of  British  and  In 


wounded. 


rzizi  L  -e.™^ ».  -".-y  .r- •»  -  — "^;,r.,!r„:^: 


command  of  the  volunteers,  and  of  such  regular.s 
E8  had  been  collected.     This  took  place  in  Sep- 
tember.    His  first  step  after  organizing  his  force 
E* 


54  HISTORY  OF   TUB  LATE  WAR. 

and  distributing  it  to  the  most  important  points, 
was  to  relieve  the  frontier  posts  now  m  great 
danger,  and  to  send  detachments  in  various  di- 
rections into  the  Indian  country.    One  ol  these, 
fort  Harrison,  situated  on  the  Wabash,  had  been 
in  the  mean  time  attacked  by  a  large  body  of  In- 
dians in  the  night;  the  situation  of  the  besieged 
was  at  one  moment  desperate,  in  consequence  ol 
the  wooden  barracks  within  the  picketmri  having 
been  set  on  fuel  nothing  but  the  admirable  cool- 
ness of  the  commanding  officer.  Captain  Taylor, 
preserved  the  lives  of  the  unfortunate  soldiers 
from  Indian  massacre.    For  his  good  conduct  he 
was  promoted  to  a  majority. 

Several  expeditions  on  a  respectable  scale 
were  conducted  by  Generals  Hopkins  and  Tup- 
^r  ,  and  by  Colonels  Campbell  and  Russell.  By 
these  all  the  forts  were  relieved,  and  the  Indian 
village*  '  id  in  ashes,  by  which  these  relentless 
^i^omicf^  were  driven  to  the  distant  British  tra- 
ding establishments  for  subsistence,  and  gave  se- 
curity to  the  frontier  settlers. 

Having  completed  these  preliminary  opera- 
tions. General  Harrison  left  fort  Winchester,  at 
which  the  principal  force  was  stationed,  in  order 
to  superintend  the  equipment  and  march  of  the 
volunteers  destined  to  replace  those  whose  servi- 


[BTOBY  OF   THE   LATE  WAB. 


iting  it  to  the  most  important  points 
eve  the  frontier  posts  now  in  great 
1  to  send  detachments  in  various  di- 

0  the  Indian  country.  One  ol  these, 
an,  situated  on  the  Wabash,  had  been 
,  time  attacked  by  a  larga  body  of  In- 
,c  night;  the  situation  of  the  besieged 
moment  desperate,  in  consequence  of 

1  barracks  within  the  picketing  having 
1  fire;  nothing  but  the  admirable  cool- 
commanding  officer.  Captain  Taylor, 
the  lives  of  the  unfortunate  soldiers 


T 


BISTORT  OF  THE  lATB  WAB. 


55 


ces  had  expired,  and  for  the  purpose  of  brmgmg 
the   forces  destined   in  the  spring  to  operate 
against  the  enemy  at  Detroit.     General  Win- 
chester was  left  in  command  of  about  1000  men, 
chiefly  volunteers  from  Kentucky,  and  consistmg 
of  young  men  of  ardent  and  generous  feeling. 
It  was  not  long  after  the  departure  of  General 
Harrison,  before  the  arrival  of  a  deputation  from 
the  village  of  Frenchtown,  situated  on  the  river 
Raisin,  between  the  Miami  and  Detroit,  soliciting 
the  protection  of  their  countrymen   from  the 
the  unfortunate  somiersdlndians,  who  had  threatened  to  destroy  them, 
._acre.    Forhisgoodconducthe       atop^^^^^^^^^^^ 

tn-rra  respectable    -    ^ y^L  Ltempl.  ed  J.  ^^^^^^^^ 
lucte"  by  Generals  Hopkins  and  Tup-  |the  earnest  solicitations  f  j^^-'^^^^^^^^^    ,, 
»y  Colonels  Campbell  and  Russell.  By  Iprevailed  upon  to  consent  to  their  "'«'^<^»2^ 
L  f^rts  were  relieved,  and  the  Indian  Jthe  relief  of  the  unJorUinate^eople.    Colonel 
id  in  ashes,  by  which  these  relentless  IlcwIs,  at  the  head  of  about  600  men,        gr 
.^d -trto^e  distant  British  trJer  part  of  Kentuc^ 

,Ushn^nts  for  subsistence,  and  gave  se- 1  „ies  of  regulars,  reached  the  "^r^TCcnemy 
the  frontier  settlers.  1 18th  of  January  1813,  '^-'^^^^^^JZ^, 

5  completed  these  preliminary  operaJ  strongly  picketed,  boldly  crossed  the  mer^^ 
Lai  Lrrison  left  fort  Winchester,  at  I  ,e,  and  aftera  warm  acuon^^^^^^^^^ 
3  principal  force  was  stationed,  in  order  I  a-,ection.    Being  maste   of  ^he  found 
ntend  the  equipment  and  march  of  the  I  camped  within  a  line  of  P'^^^^^s  which  wo 
-destined  to  replace  those  whose  servi-Lntribute  to  render  his  position  defencible,  in 


66 


iriSTOBY   OF  THK   LA,TB  WAB. 


case  of  an  attack  by  a  larger  body.     Gener- 
al Harrison,  about  this  time,  arriving  at    fort 
Winchester,    with   some    reinforcements,  was 
much  chagrined  to  find  this  deviation  from  his 
plan  of  operation.    To  remedy  this  false  step 
as  far  as  lay  in  his  {■  wct,  he  despatched  Gen. 
Winchester  to  take  the  command  at  the  head  of 
an  additional  force  of  200  men.     This  increased 
the  main  body  to  seven  hundred  and  fifty.    The 
additional  force  encamped  on  the  outside  of  the 
pickets  before  mentioned.     At  day-light  on  the 
22d,  this  force  was  suddenly  attacked  by  2000 
British  and  Indians:  those  on  the  outside  of  the 
pickets,   were  soon  overpowered  by  numbers, 
and  were  all  either  killed  or  fell  into  the  hands 
of  the  ruthless  savages.     General  Winchester 
and  Colonel  Lewis,  who  happened  to  be  with 
this  body,  were  made  prisoners  about  the  same 
time.     Those  within  the  pickets,  about  600  iu 
number,  continued  the    resistance  until   near 
eleven  o'clock,  having  repeatedly  repelled  the  as- 
sailants in  the  attempt  upon  the  stockade.     Find 
iiig  that  their  arms  could  make  no  impression 
on  this  band  of  heroes,  the  enemy  resorted  to 
the  arts  of  persuasion;  a  flag  was  sent,  promi- 
ses of  protection  were  held  forth;  they  express- 
ly agreed  to  preserve  to  the  officers  their  side 


armi 
Gem 
brav 
thei 
upor 
T 
obli> 
The 
liorr 
man; 
the 
suit 
comi 
nam 
Man 
the] 
rible 
be  a 
in  t 
part 
wan 
been 
houi 
regi; 
Indii 
of  C 
tlem 


r   OF  THE   LA.TB  WAS. 

Ii  by  a  larger  body.  Gencr- 
ut  this  time,  arriving  at  fort 
;h   some    reinforcements,  was 

to  find  this  deviation  from  his 
n.    To  remedy  this  false  step 
his  f.   ./or,  he  despatched  Gen. 
ikc  the  command  at  the  head  of 
m  of  200  men.     This  increased 
)  seven  hundred  and  fifty.    The 
encamped  on  the  outside  of  the 
nontioned.     At  day-light  on  the 
was  suddenly  attacked  by  2000 
ans:  those  on  the  outside  of  the 
ioon  overpowered  by  numbers, 
ther  killed  or  fell  into  the  hands 

savages.  General  Winchester 
(Wis,  who  happened  to  be  with 
(  made  prisoners  about  the  same 
ivithin  the  pickets,  about  600  in 
uod  the  resistance  until  near 
laving  repeatedly  repelled  the  as- 
ittempt  upon  the  stockade.  Find 
arms  could  make  no  impression 
f  heroes,  the  enemy  resorted  to 
■suasion;  a  flag  was  sent,  promi- 
,n  were  held  forth;  they  express- 
reserve  to  the  officers  their  side 


HISTORY   OF  THE   LATE   WAS. 


67 


rtM-JTKt  ij TK*m\ 


arms;  to  all  this  were  added  the  entreaties  of 
General  Winchester,  who  feared  that  these 
brave  men  would  all  be  sacrificed  to  the  fury  of 
the  savage  enemy.  They  were  at  last  prevailed 
upon  to  lay  down  their  arms. 

The  historian  would  gladly  cast  the  veil  of 
oblivion  over  the  scenes  which  now  ensued. 
The  savages  soon  commenced  their  deeds  of 
horror ;  the  dead  were  deprived  of  their  clothing; 
many  of  the  wounded  tomahawked  and  robbed; 
the  living  were  exposed  to  every  species  of  in- 
sult and  torture.  The  conduct  of  the  British 
commander,  Gen.  Proctor,  has  stamped  his 
name  with  infamy  that  will  last  to  remotest  ages. 
Many  of  the  prisoners  were  carried  away  by 
the  Indians,  some  of  them  were  burnt  with  hor- 
rible torments,  and  others  retained  in  slavery  to 
be  afterwards  carried  about  like  beasts,  and  sold 
in  the  streets  of  Detroit.  The  most  tragical 
part  of  this  shocking  aflair,  was  the  burning  up- 
wards of  60  of  the  unhappy  wounded,  who  had 
been  left  in  the  houses  of  the  inhabitants;  these 
houses  were  left  without  any  guard  of  British 
regulars,  and  the  day  after  the  battle,  a  party  of 
Indians  returned  and  set  fire  to  them.  The  fate 
of  Captain  Hart,  an  accomplished  young  gen- 
tleman of  Kentucky,  was  peculiarly  distre-ssing. 
3* 


jmiin'i'iiKWJ' 


een  I 


00  HISTOBV   OF  THE  lATB  WA«. 

Col.  ElUot,  Of  the  British  amy  Who  ad^^ 
hi8  classmate  at  Princeton,  voluntanl,  .ndered 
i  .  his  protection,  and  promised  to  return  wU 
the  means  of  conveyance  to  a  p  ace  of  safety 
where  his  wound  might  be  attended  to.  Thjs 
he  never  did.  Capt.  Hart  preva.led  on  two 
Indians  for  a  sum  of  money  to  take  him  to  De- 
troit- thev  had  proceeded  with  him  but  a  short 
^a;.c^  when  lith  the  cruelty  and  fickleness 

of  savages,  they  pulled  him  from  his  horse,  and 
wreaked  their  vengeance  upon  their  defenceles 
prisoner.  Ohl  Britain,  what  a  heart  couldst 
Lu  have  possessed,  to  permit  a  fellowship  m 
thy  wars,  with  such  bloody  fiends!  Two  hun- 
dred of  the  dead  were  suffered  to  lie  on  the 
ground;  no  funeral  rites  were  permitted  to  be 
paid  them.  Humanity  must  ever  weep  over 
this  melancholy  picture. 

Among  the  slain,  or  barbarously  murdered, 
were  Colonel  Allen,  Captains  Hickman,  Simp- 
son, (a  member  of  Congress,)  Mead,  Edwards, 
Price,  M'Cracken,  and  many  other  of  the  choi- 
cest sons  of  Kentucky. 


Meetin 
Java- 


OF  THE  LATB  WAII. 

5  British  army,  who  "  ad  been 
'rinceton,  voluntaril  v    -indered 
1,  and  promised  to  return  with 
nveyance  to  a  place  of  safety 
1  might  be  attended  to.    This 
Capt.  Hart  prevailed  on  two 
n  of  money  to  take  him  to  De- 
,roceoded  with  him  but  a  short 
vith  the  cruelty  and  fickleness 
pulled  him  from  his  horse,  and 
engcancc  upon  their  defenceless 
Britain,  what  a   heart  couldst 
sssed,  to  permit  a  fellowship  in 
such  bloody  fiends!    Two  hun- 
ad  were  suffered  to  lie  on  the 
eral  rites  were  permitted  to  be 
umanity  must  ever  weep  over 
'  picture. 

slain,  or  barbarously  murdered, 
Mien,  Captains  Hickman,  Simp- 
r  of  Congress,)  Mead,  Edwards, 
:en,  and  many  other  of  the  choi- 
jntucky. 


HIBTORY  or  THB  LATE  WAR.  59 

CHAPTER  VII. 

Meeting  of  Congress— Proposed  Armistice— Capture  of  the 
Java— Operations  on  the  Lakes— Siege  of  Fort  Meig». 

Shortly  after  the  commencement  of  the  war, 
a  proposition    for  cessation  of  hostilities,  was 
made    y  the  Governor  of  Canada,  information 
having  reached  liim  of  the  repeal  of  the  Orders 
in  Council.    This  proposition  being  vague  and 
informal,  was  at  once  rejected.    It  was  followed 
by  one  more  specific  on  the  part  of  Admiral 
Warren,  who  came  to  take  command  of  the  sta- 
tion; he  demanded  as  a  preliminary  to  every 
other  step,  that  the  United  States  should  throw 
down  their  arms,  as  having  been  the  aggressors. 
This  insolent  demand  was  instantly  refused.  In 
fact  we  had  no  confidence    in  the  momentary 
repeal  of  the  orders  in  council;  nothing  but  a 
repeal  of  the  wicked  temper  of  the  enemy  could 
^ive  us  security.    To  prove,  however,  to  the 
world,  that  we  were  not  behind  our  enemy  in  a 
wish  to  put  an  end  to  the  horrors  of  war,  the 
American  Charge  d'Aflaires  in  London,  was  in- 
structed to  make  formal  proposals  for  settling 
I  all  disputes  on  fair  terms,  and  in  the  mean  time, 
to  agree  to  an  armistice  pending  the  negotiation. 

They  were  not  received. 


00  nisTOHY  OF  rnE  iatb  vtab. 

firnu^ess,  becoming  the  representatives 
and  magnanimous  people  ^^ 

Captain  Chauncey,of  the  "^^y' ^f^        g 

T  ll  Ontario  to  organize  a  naval  force,    ao 
Lake    Untario  lo  "  s  .         ^^^^ 

rapid  were  his  operations,  that  betore  wm 

Wh«e  Congress  »a.en^-^.__^^,,,, 

guished  officer  ^.^^  ^^^^  ^^^„y 

lortally   wounded.    On   board  were  General 


^.iMIUllKl    '»" 


OF    THE  tATB  VTAB. 

of  the  Congress,  the  aspect 
,  as  to  call  for  the  most  active 

,arations  for  carrying  on  the 
as  authorized;  an  addit.ona 
were  to  be  enlisted;  and  all 
3visions  for  a  serious  conflict 
.  President  called  upon  the  Na- 
,  to  meet  the  coming  storm  with 
,g  the  representatives  of  a  free 

3  people. 

,cey,ofthe  navy,  was  sent  to 
0  organize  a  naval  force.  So 
perations,  that  before  winter  set 

d  the  ascendency  on  the  Lake, 
British  vessel,  and  driven  their 

Iter  in  the  harbor  of  Kingston, 
ess  wa*  engaged  in  these  affairs, 

f  a  third  victory  obtained  over  a 
On  the  29th  of  December,  at 
M    the  Constitution,   Captain 

"in  w'lth  and  captured  the  British 

,f  60  guns,  and  upwards  of  400 
ed  by  Captain  Lambert,  a  distin- 

The  action  lasted  about  one 
If,  during  which  time  the  enemy 
.dismasted,  and  their  commander 

nded.    On   board  were  General 


HIOTORY   OP  THB  lATE   WAH.  61 

val  commanders.  ^.^urrence  were 

The  rejoicings  for  tins  nappy 

ending  to  f»"»  """^  ;^f  ^a  Lunctt  of  » 

combined  force  of  British  an 

iPrnrtor  made  its  appearance,     a^'^ 
General  Proctor,  nmtr^^^^^  ^„^ 

which  was  manned  ^^^th  about  ^^^^ 

rd:=r.nn:::r:^ 


H  HISTORY  OF  THB  LATB  WAR. 

approach  of  1200  men  under  General  Clay.    A 
well  planned  sortie  in  conjunction  with  the  rein- 
forcement was  resolved  upon.     Colonel  Dudley 
descending  the  Miami  at  the  head  of  a  detach- 
ment, in  pursuance  of  the  preconcerted  plan, 
suddenly  landed  on  the  left  bank  of  the  river, 
assailed   the   British  batteries,  and  completely 
drove  them  from  the  field;  unfortunately,  how- 
ever, the  impetuosity  of  his  troops  could  not  be 
checked;  they  persisted  in  pursuing  the  enemy 
until  they  reached  a  wood,  where  they  were 
suddenly  surrounded  and  the  greater  part  cut  to 
pieces  or  made  prisoners.    The  Colonel,  who 
had  endeavored  to  make  good  his  retreat  to  the 
boats,  was  slain  in  the  struggle.     On  the  oppo- 
site side,  the  sortie  on  the  British  works  was 
completely  successful.     Col.  Mille,    of  the  gal- 
lant 4th,  who  was  chosen  for  this  purpose,  drove 
the  besiegers  from  all  their  works.     On  that 
side  also,  the  ungovernable  headlong  daring  of 
the  Kentuckians,  was   near    being   ruinous   to 
them;  they   were  only  saved  by  a    vigorous 
charge  of  the  horse  which  covered  their  retreat. 
Among  the  distinguished  officers  of  the  day, 
we  find  the  names  of  Major  Alexander,  Captains 
Croghan,  Bradford,  Nearing,  Sebrie,  and  Lieu- 
tenants Campbell  and  Gwyn. 


Ti 


HI8TOBY   OF   THE    lATK   WAH. 


68 


OP  THE  lATB  WAB. 

men  under  General  Clay.    A 
3  in  conjunction  with  the  rein- 
jolved  upon.     Colonel  Dudley 
[ittuii  at  the  head  of  a  detach- 
cc  of  the  preconcerted  plan, 
m  the  left  bank  of  the  river, 
Ish  batteries,  and  completely 
the  field;  unfortunately,  how- 
sity  of  his  troops  could  not  be 
rsisted  in  pursuing  the  enemy 
>d  a  wood,  where  they  were 
ded  and  the  greater  part  cut  to 
)risoncrs.    The  Colonel,  who 

0  make  good  his  retreat  to  the 
in  the  struggle.  On  the  oppo- 
tie  on  the  British  works  was 
ssful.  Col.  Mille.  of  the  gal- 
3  chosen  for  this  purpose,  drove 
»m  all  their  works.  .  On  that 
rovernable  headlong  daring  of 
,  was  near  being  ruinous  to 
re  only  saved  by  a  vigorous 
rse  which  covered  their  retreat, 
inguished  officers  of  the  day, 
s  of  Major  Alexander,  Captains 
rd,  Nearing,  Sebrie,  and  Lieu- 

1  and  Gwyn. 


This  put  an  end  to  the  siege  of  Fort  Meigs. 
During  the  siege  which  lasted  thirteen  days,  the 
Americans  lost  80  killed,  and  150  wounded,  be- 
sides those  who  fell  a  sacrifice  to  the  fury  of  the 
savages  under  Dudley.  Had  the  enemy  been 
successful,  the  most  disastrous  consequences 
would  have  followed.  The  whole  frontier  was 
thus  placed  in  a  state  of  sec.'rity,  from  the  mur- 
derous incursions  of  the  savages. 


CHAPTER  VIH. 


Capture  of  the  Peacock— Other  Naval  Affair*. 
The  naval  incidents  of  the  second  year  of  the 
war,  with  one  or  two  exceptions,  were  of  the 
same  brilliant  character  as  the  first.     The  open- 
ing of  this  year  was  signalized  by  the  capture  of 
j  the  Peacock,  by  the  Hornet,  Captain  Lawrence. 
I  This  vessel  had  been  left  by  Commodore  B^xin- 
bridge  shortly  before  his  capture  of  the  Java,  to 
blockade  the  Bonne  Citoyenne,  a  British  vessel 
then  in  the  port  of  St.  Salvador.     On  the  24th  of 
I  January,  the  Montague  74,  hove  in  sight,  on 
which  the  Hornet  was  compelled  to  raise  the 

siege. 
The  Hornet  by  this  occurrence,  was  compelled 


^  HMTOBV   or  TUK   tATK  WAK. 

Hot.     Th,.  proved  ■o^.l.reo^n  o^.« 
1„„,  hnforo  tlw    «oro  1»*  0"g»8«i'-    '"  "7° 

'l^r:ipc:cocUcou>a»,,M«;y;«^c, 

from  sinking;  she  hung  out  signals  of  distress 
he  su'^  moment  that  she  hauled  down  her  tog 
?Lg:erousLaw.ence  immediately  despatc^ 
L  h^ats  to  assist  in  saving  the  vanquished  crew, 
every  possible  effort  was  made,  but  in  despite  o 
aSy  eould  do  she  went  to  the  bottom  carry m 
down  Uuee  American  seamen,  and  five  of  her 
own      The  ollicer  and  crew  having  been  depn- 
vld  of  their  clothes,  were  supplied  by  the  Amer^ 
^„s.who  shared  with  them  like  br.>thers.  The 
iniury  of  the  Hornet  was  very  slight. 

The  British,  mortified  beyond  measure  at  th 
repeated   defeats  which  they  had  experienced, 
ouCTt  necessary  seriously  to  devise  some  mod 
of'tievingthefrcredit.     Several  frigates  we. 
fited  out  in  the  best  possible  manner,  with  picked 
c^s     Marksmen  in  imitation  as  they  pretend- 


OF  TIIK   tATK  WAS. 

V  course.  On  the  23d  of  Feb- 
rered  an  English  brig  ly.ng  at 
^arabona  banks:  Coptoin  Law- 
er,  but  while  in  the  act  of  beat- 
purpose  of  coming  up,  another 

a.  espied  making  towards  tl>e 
roved  to  bee  large  man  of  war 

,k,  Captain  Peak.     It  was  not 
were  both  engaged.    In  fifteen 

•ock  could  with  difficulty  be  kept 
,e  hung  out  signals  of  distress  at 

,t  that  she  hauled  down  her  flag, 
awrence  immediately  despatched 
,t  in  saving  the  vanquished  crow; 
■nbrt  was  made,  but  in  despite  of 
,  Hhc  went  to  the  bottom,  carrying 
,erican  seamen,  and  five  of  her 
,cer  and  crew  having  been  depn- 
thes,  were  supplied  by  the  Amer- 
red  with  them  like  brothers.  The 
lornet  was  very  slight. 
,  mortified  beyond  measure  at  the 
ats  which  they  had  experienced, 
ary  seriously  to  devise  some  mode 
heir  credit.    Several  frigates  were 
best  possible  manner,  with  picked 
:smen  in  imitation  as  they  pretend- 


HI8TOHY    OF  THK   lATB  WA«. 

ed  of  the  Americans,  were  stationed  in  the  tops, 
and  the  artillerists  were  trained  with  peculiar 
attention.  The  numbers  of  the  crews  were  in- 
creased for  the  purpose  of  boarding;  in  (me  noth- 
ing was  left  undone  that  might  enable  them  to 
rope  with  the  formidable  American. 

Captain  Lawrence  returned  in  April,  and  nfer 
experiencing  every  mark  of  honor    which  his 
country  could  bestow,  was  appointed  to  the  com- 
mand of  the  Chesapeake  at  Boston,  the  unfortu- 
nate vessel  which  had,  before  the  war,  received 
so  great  an  insult  from  the  British.  The  Shannon 
and  Tenedos  were  at  this  time  cruizmg  ofl"  the 
harbor,  and  sending  challenges  to  the  American 
commanders  of  frigates.    Lawrence  unfortunate- 
ly never  received  any  of  them,  and  was  not 
aware  that  he  had  to  contend  with  an  enemy 
specially  prepared ;  but  perceiving  a  British  ves- 
«d  casting  defiance  as  it  were  in  his  teeth,  by 
parading  in  full  view  of  him,  he  burned  to  sa% 
forth   and  try  the  fortune  of  his  arms.     The 
Chesapeake  was  undergoing  some  repairs;  tlie 
greater  part  of  her  crew  had  been  discharged 
new  hands  were  to  be  enlisted,  and  many  of  the 
most   important  equipments  to  be  made.     His 
impatience  hurried  every  thing  fr;"*!--  "°  ™°- 
Jnt  was  to  be  lost.    On  the  1st  of  June  he  sail- 


66 


HMTOBV   OF  THB   LATI  WAS. 


ed  out,  and  the  Shannon,  Captain  Broko,  espying 
him,  manifested  no  wish  to  avoid  the  contest. 
Lawrence  harangued  his  crew,  wlion  to  his  inex- 
pressible mortification,  he  found  them  sullen  and 
mutinous;  he  endeavored  to  conciliate  them  and 
to  arouse  within  their  breasts  a  spirit  worthy  of 
the  occasion.  But  in  vain,  as  became  too  soon 
evident.  Afler  some  manoBUvering  they  came 
to  close  quarters,  and  at  first  the  advantage  was 
evidently  in  favor  of  the  Chesapeake;  the  fortune 
of  the  day  soon  began  to  turn,  in  consequence 
of  the  great  destruction  among  the  American 
officers.  Sailing-master  White  was  killed ;  Lieu- 
tenant Ballard,  mortally  wounded;  Lieutenant 
Brown,  of  the  marines,  severely ;  as  also  the 
first  Lieutenant  Ludlow.  Captain  Lawrence, 
although  severely  wounded,  still  remained  on 
deck  giving  his  orders  with  coolness  as  he  leaned 
upon  the  companion  way.  He  was  giving  orders 
for  the  boarders  to  come  up,  when  he  received 
a  ball  in  his  body  on  which  he  was  carried  below, 
exclaiming  to  his  companions  as  they  cai-ried 
him  off,  ^^ Don't  give  up  the  SAip,"  which  words 
have  become  the  motto  of  American  seamen. 
Captain  Broke  finding  that  his  vessel  had  re- 
ceived great  injury,  and  was  then  in  a  smking 
condition,  determined  to  board.  The  Chesapeake 


tV   OF  THB   hAT9  WAI. 

hannon,  Captain  Broke,  espying 
no  wish  to  avoid  the  contest, 
igued  his  crew,  wlion  to  his  inex- 
cation,  he  found  them  sullen  and 
ideavored  to  conciliate  them  and 
their  breasts  a  spirit  worthy  of 
But  in  vain,  as  became  too  soon 
some  manoBUvering  they  came 
i,  and  at  first  the  advantage  was 
>r  of  the  Chesapeake;  the  fortune 
1  began  to  turn,  in  consequence 
^struction  among  the  American 
j-master  White  was  killed ;  Lieu- 
mortally  wounded;  Lieutenant 
marines,  severely;  as  also  th<' 
t  Ludlow.  Captain  Lawrence, 
ily  wounded,  still  remained  on 
irdcrs  with  coolness  as  he  leaned 
lion  way.  He  was  giving  orders 
s  to  come  up,  when  he  receiveil 
r  on  which  he  was  carried  below, 
lis  companions  as  they  carried 
give  up  the  SAip,"  which  words 
he  motto  of  American  seamen, 
finding  that  his  vessel  had  re- 
jury,  and  was  then  in  a  sinking 
nined  to  board.  The  Chesapeake 


HDTORY   OF  TUB   LATK  WAR. 


87 


having  l>con  disobled  in  hor  rigging,  had  fallen, 
to  use  the  seaman's  phra-so,  on  board  the  Shan- 
non. The  British  ronimandcr  leaped  on  deck 
at  tlic  head  of  about  20  men,  and  was  soon  fol- 
lowed by  a  sufficient  number  of  his  crew  to  ac- 
complish tho  object  in  view.  A  short  but  dea- 
perate  struggle  ensued. 

The  loss  of  officers  on  tho  part  of  the  Ameri- 
cans, and  the  dastardly  conduct  of  the  bootswain, 
who   had   skulked  instead   of  calling  up   the 
boarders,    govo   tho  decided  advantage  to  the 
enemy.     The  action  in  a  short  time,  terminated 
in  the  capture  of  the  Chesapeake.     Nearly  all 
the  officers  on  board  this  ill-fated  ship,  "built 
,n  the  Moon's  Eclipse,  and  rigged  with  curses 
durk,"  were  either  killed  or  wounded.    On  the 
part  of  the  enemy  thero  were  23  killed  and  66 
wounded.     The  conduct  of  the  British  was  not 
80  conspicuous  for  magnanimity  totho  vanquish- 
ed, as  would  have  been  wished,  with  the  excep- 
tion   of  tho  honorable  interment  of  the  naval 
heroes,  Lawrence  and  Ludlow,  on  their  arrival 

at  Halifax. 

The  rejoicings  in  England  for  this  victory, 
were  scarcely  more  extravagant  than  they  had 
been  for  those  of  Nelson,  and  of  their  most  dis- 
tinguished   Admirals.      The   conquest  of  one 


68  HI8T0KV   OF   THE   LATE  WAK. 

American  frigate,  appeared  to  them  a  greater 
exploit,  than  the  capture  of  a  French  or  Span- 
ish fleet.     For  a  time  the  tide  of  fortune  seem- 
ed to  be  in  favor  of  Britain.     The  Argus,  early 
in  June,  after  having  carried  out  the  American 
minister  to  France,  went  to  cruize  in  the  British 
channel,  where  she  committed  so  much  havoc 
that  the  British  government  found  it  necessary 
to  fit  out  ships  on  purpose  to  encounter  this  dan- 
gerous enemy.     By  one  of  these,  (the  Pelican,) 
she  was  discovered  at  night  by  means  of  a  ship 
in  flames.    Captain  Allen  fell  at  the  first  fire, 
and   his    Lieutenant  soon    after.     The    wheel 
being  unfortunately  shot  away,  she  was  exposed 
to  a  raking  fire.    In  this  situation  she  withstood 
the  enemy's  broadsides  some  time:  but  was  at 
last   compelled  to  surrender   after  forty-seven 
minutes  close  fighting.    This  was  the  last^icto- 
ry  fairly  obtained  by  Britain. 

Early  in  July,  letters  were  received  from 
Commodore  Porter,  who  it  seems  had  sailed 
round  Cape  Horn,  for  the  purpose  of  cutting  up 
the  English  trade  and  to  destroy  the  fisheries  in 
the  South  seas.  In  this  he  met  with  astonishing 
success:  he  captured  nine  of  the  enemy's  ships, 
the  greater  part  of  which  were  armed,  and  dis- 
tributing seme  of  his  men  on  board  these  ships, 


i-.> 


HISTORY    OF   THE   LATE   WAH. 


69 


I8T0KV   OF  THE   LATE  WAB. 

"rigate,  appeared  to  lliem  a  greater 
,n  the  capture  of  a  French  or  Span- 
For  a  time  the  tide  of  fortune  seem- 
favor  of  Britain.     The  Argus,  early 
er  having  carried  out  the  American 
France,  went  to  cruize  in  the  British 
here  she  committed  so  much  havoc 
ritish  government  found  it  necessary 
lips  on  purpose  to  encounter  this  dan- 
my.     By  one  of  these,  (the  Pelican,) 
scovered  at  night  by  means  of  a  ship 
Captain  Allen  fell  at  the  first  fire, 
Lieutenant  soon    after.     The    wheel 
irtunately  shot  away,  she  was  exposed 
IT  fire.    In  this  situation  she  withstood 
's  broadsides  some  time:  but  was  at 
)elled  to  surrender   after  forty-seven 
ose  fighting.    This  was  the  lasUicto- 
jbtained  by  Britain, 
in  July,   letters   were  received  from 
re   Porter,  who  it  seems   had  sailed 
pe  Horn,  for  the  purpose  of  cutting  up 
sh  trade  and  to  destroy  the  fisheries  in 
seas.     In  this  he  met  with  astonishing 
lie  captured  nine  of  the  enemy's  ships, 
er  part  of  which  were  armed,  and  dis- 
some  of  his  men  on  board  these  ships, 


he  made  out  to  form  a  respectable  fleet,  with 
which  he  soon  became  master  of  the  Pacific 

Ocean. 

In  the  Atlantic,  victory  onc«  more  returned  to 
the  side  of  justice.     On  the  first  of  September 
the  brig  Enterprize,  Captain  Burrows,  fell  in 
with  the  Boxer,  Captain  Blythe.     The  action 
lasted  but  little  more  than  thirty  minutes,  when 
the  Englishman  was  so  roughly  handled  that  he 
cried  for  quarter,  as  they  were  unable  to  haul 
down  the  colors,  having  used  the  precaution  to 
make  sure  of  their  courage,  by  nailing  it  to 
the  mast.     Both  the  commanders  were  killed. 
Captain  Burrows  refused  to  be  carried  below, 
and  when  the  sword  of  his  adversary  was  pre- 
sented to  him,  he  pressed  it  to  his  breast  and 
exclaimed,  "I  die  contented." 

Commodore  Rogers,  on  the  25th  of  Septem- 
ber, arrived  after  a  cruize  of  great  length,  hav- 
ing looked  at  every  country  on  the  Atlantic,  and 
circumnavigated  the  British  islands,  without 
molestation  from  the  thousand  ships  of  Great 
Britain.  Off  the  American  coast  he  captured  a 
small  vessel,  the  Highflyer,  with  Admiral  War- 
ren's private  signals,  by  which  he  was  enabled 
to  escape  the  British  cruizers. 


70 


HlffTORT  OF  TH'i   tATB  WAR. 


CHAPTER  IX. 

RuMian  MediaUon-BriUiant  events  of  the  War. 
War  entails  upon  every  nation  many  evils 
and  many  sufferings;  although  it  is  one  of  the 
conditions  of  life,  there  is  no  one  who  reasons 
wisely,  who  does  not  prefer  the  smiles  of  peace 
to  the  flickering  hrand  of  discord.    It  was  there- 
fore not  without  gladness,  that  we  hailed  the 
first  rays  which  promised  once  more  a  day  of 
sunshine.      The    overtures    fot   an    armistice 
reciprocally  made,  had  entirely  failed,  when  the 
emperor  of  Russia  interposed  his  good  offices 
as   mediator,   desirous   of   bringing   about  an 
amicable  adjustment  of  differences.     President 
Madison  immediately  accepted  the  proposition, 
and  without  delay  appointed  Messrs.  Gallatin 
and  Bayard,  together  with  Mr.  Adams,  the  com- 
missioners for  the  occasion.    The  two  former 
embarked  as  soon  as  possible  for  Europe. 

The  campaign  of  1813,  the  second  year  of 
the  war,  opened  with  several  brilliant  affairs, 
which  served  to  raise  the  character  of  our  sol- 
diery. Commodore  Chauncey  was  master  of 
Lake  Ontario,  and  Sir  James  Yoe  was  careful 
not  to  shew  himself  out  of  Kingston  until  the 


r  OF  TH'i   iATE  WAB. 

CHAPTER  IX. 

ion— Brilliant  events  of  the  War. 

upon  every  nation  many  evils 
rings;  although  it  is  one  of  the 
e,  there  is  no  one  who  reasons 
s  not  prefer  the  smiles  of  peace 

brand  of  discord.  It  was  there- 
it  gladness,  that  we  hailed  the 
1  promised  once  more  a  day  of 
e  overtures  foi:  an  armistice 
de,  had  entirely  failed,  when  the 
issia  interposed  his  good  offices 
desirous  of  brhiging  about  an 
tment  of  differences.  President 
diately  accepted  the  proposition, 
elay  appointed  Messrs.  Gallatin 
gether  with  Mr.  Adams,  the  com- 

the  occasion.  The  two  former 
loon  as  possible  for  Europe, 
ign  of  1813,  the  second  year  of 
led  with  several  brilliant  affairs, 
to  raise  the  character  of  our  sol- 
nodore  Chauncey  was  master  of 
,  and  Sir  James  Yoe  was  careful 
limself  out  of  Kingston  until  the 


HISTOBT  OF  THE   LATE  WAR. 


71 


vessels  then  building  would  give  him  the  supe- 
riority.    The    commander    in    chief.  General 
Dearborne,  was  therefore  at  liberty  to  cross  the 
Canada  side  with  his  troops,  in  the  pursuit  of 
any  plan  of  operation  he  might  adopt.    Pike, 
who  had  been  appointed  to  the  rank  of  Briga- 
dier, full  of  the  most  ardent  desire  of  distinction, 
panted  for  an  opportunity  of  taking  the  field. 
An  attack  upon  York  was  resolved  upon;  the 
plan  and  execution  was  resigned  to  Pike.     This 
place,  the  capital  of  Upper  Canada,  contained 
vast  quantities  of  military  and  naval  stores,  and 
moreover,    a  large    vessel  almost    ready    for 
launching,  which  would  give  the  command  of 
the  lake  to  the  British. 

On  the  25th  of  April,  2000  men  were  em- 
barked on  board  the  American  squadron,  and 
apj)eared  before  York.  No  time  was  lost  in  ef- 
fecting a  landing  at  the  ruins  of  the  old  fort  of 
Toronto,  about  two  miles  above  the  town.  This 
was  effected  under  a  severe  fire  from  the  enemy, 
who  had  been  apprized  and  were  drawn  up  at 
the  water's  edge.  Forsyth,  with  his  riflemen, 
led  the  van,  but  receiving  a  galling  fire  as  he 
neared  the  shore  he  ordered  his  boatmen  to  rest 
upon  their  oars,  in  order  to  give  his  marksmen 
an    opportunity  of   returning  the  compliment. 


72  HISTOKY   OF  TUB   tATE  WAH. 

This  being  observec'.  by  Pike,  who  ,vas  anxious, 
ly  watching  every  movement,  he  leaped  mto  the 
boat  prepared  for  himself  and  staff,  and  ordered 
the  detachment  of  major  King  to  follow  hur, 
He  made  good  his  landing,  and  placmg  hunsef 
at  the  head  of  the  troops  first  formed,  galkntly 
charged  upon  the  enemy,  and  drove  them  before 
hiu,      A  few  moments  after,  reinforcements  ai- 
viving,  he  moved  forward,  drove  the  enemy  from 
a  bat^ry  which  they  had  constructed,  and  the 
pushed  on  to  another,  whcu  the  sound  of  Fo  - 
svth's  bugles  announced  victory  on  his  part.   As 
he  approached  the  last  battery,  it  was  precxpi- 
tately  abandoned  by  the  enemy.    Here  the  co  - 
umn  halted  within  300  yards  of  the  enemy  s 
barracks.    While  calmly  engaged  in  conversa- 
tion with  a  British  sergeant,  a  dreadful  exp^- 
sion  took  place.    It  was  the  magazme  m  whid> 
there  had  been  an  immense  quantity  of  gunpow- 
der.     Masses  of   stone  and  timber  fell  m  th 
„,idst    of  the  Americans,    P™'^^^'"^  — 
havoc;  upwards  of  200  were  at  once  kdled  and 
wounded.    Unsubduedby  the  horrors  of  this  m. 
fernal  contrivance,  and  this  scene  of  de^olat  o  , 
their  ranks  were  instan-ly  closed,  and  they  rent 
the  air  with  three  loud  huzzas,  while  the  anima- 
ting  tuno  of  Yankee  Doodle  cheered  even  the 


dying 
pain, 
doom 
reer: 
tainir 
spirit 
my  bi 
He  w 
the  s 
his  ■  ^ 


lpro| 


ir   OF  TUS   LATE  WAB. 

•vcc-  by  Pike,  who  was  onxious- 
ry  movement,  he  leaped  into  the 
r  himself  and  staff,  and  ordered 

of  major  King  to  follow  him. 
.is  landing,  and  placing  himself 
he  troops  first  formed,  gallantly 
le  enemy,  and  drove  them  before 
omcnts  after,  reinforcements  ai- 
:d  forward,  drove  the  enemy  from 
I  they  had  constructed,  and  then 
another,  when  the  sound  of  Fot- 
nnounced  victory  on  his  part.   As 

the  last  battery,  it  was  precipi- 
ed  by  the  enemy.  Here  the  col- 
ithin  300  yards  of  the  enemy's 
bile  calmly  engaged  in  conversa- 
ritish  sergeant,  a  dreadful  explo- 
B  It  was  the  magazine  m  whicli 
ti  an  immense  quantity  of  gunpow- 

of  stone  and  timber  fell  in  the 
J  Americans,  producing  dreadfu 
rds  of  200  were  at  once  killed  and 
nsubduedby  the  horrors  of  this  in- 

rance,  and  this  scene  of  desolation, 
,cre  instantly  closed,  and  they  rent 

hree  loud  huzzas,  while  the  anima- 
Yankee  Doodle  cheered  even  the 


HISTORY   OF  TH$  lATE  AVAR. 


73 


dying,  and  caused  the  wounded  to  forg-^t  their 
pain.  The  chivalrous  leader  however,  was  here 
doomed  to  terminate  his  short  but  glorious  ca- 
reer: he  received  a  mortal  contusion,  but  still  re- 
taining enough  of  life  to  give  words  to  his  gallant 
spirit,  ho  thus  addressed  his  troops,  "Move  on 
my  brave  fellows,  and  revenge  your  General.'''' 
He  was  then  carried  on  board  one  of  the  vessels ; 
the  scenes  of  life  were  rapidly  receding  from 
his  view,  and  his  sight  growing  every  moment 
more  dim,  when  he  was  somewhat  roused  by  the 
victorious  shouts  of  his  men.  A  moment  aAer, 
tlie  British  flag  was  brought  to  him;  this  for  a 
moment  kindled  up  his  fading  "ye,  and  request- 
ing that  the  trophy  might  be  placed  under 
jhis  head,  he  expired. 

The  American  troops  headed  by  Col.  Pearce, 

Itook  possession  of  all  the  British  wo.ks,  and 

|\vere  on  full  march  to  York,  when  they  were 

Imet  by  a  deputation  who  offered  to  surrender. 

It  waa  agreed  that  the  place,  with   all  public 

property,  and  the  troops  should  be  surrendered 

to  the  Anjericans.     While  the  articles  of  capit- 

ilation  were  under  discussion,  the  British  were 

itually  engaged  in  destroying   all  the  public 

roperty,  while  an  opportunity  was  given  to 

General  Sheaffe  to  oscape  with  a  considerable 

4  G 


74  HBTTOBY  OF  THE  LAT«  WAS. 

portion  Of  his  regulars     About  three  cjcbck 
possession  was  taken  of  the  town.      Pike,  m 
Cgenoral  orders,  had  forbidden  any  d"  h» 
„en  to  violate   private  property,   on  pa^n  of 
ri     The  order  was  strictly  obeyed,  although 

there  existed  cause  of  n.uch  exasperation 

General  Dearbornc,  did  not «—  f  ^^ 
„and,  until  after  possession  was  taken  of  he 
;L:    Having  taken  measures  for  securing  th 
Ltoired  stores  and  the  prisoners,  who  amoun 
ed  to  about  800,  he  ordered  the  place  to  be  evac- 
:^ted,  and  soon  after  re^-^arked  his  troops^ 
Essential  service  was  rendered  by  ComnK^o 
Chauncey,   in  covering   the   landing,    and 
annoying  the  enemy's  batteries.    The  Amer  ■ 
iToss  in  killed  and   wounded,  amounted  to 
-     269,  that  of  the  British  to  930  men,  including 

^"onTe  return  to  Sacket's  Harbor,  prepara- 
tions were  made  for  the  attack  on  Fort  George, 
and  the  British  strong-holds   on  the  Niagara, 
which  had  been  vainly  attempted  the  year  be- 
fore.   All  things  being  made  ready,  the  army 
embarked  on  board  the  fleet,  and  on  the  23d  of 
May,  sailed  on  the  contemplated  enterprise.- 
The  landing  took  place  on  the  27th  of  the  sair. 
month.    Commodore  Chauncey  placed  his  ve»  | 


OF  THB  LATB  WAB. 

rulars.     About  three  o'clock, 
ken  of  the  town.      Pike,  in 
f8,  had  forbidden  any  of  his 
.rivate  property,   on  pain  of 
r  was  strictly  obeyed,  although 
e  of  much  exasperation, 
ornc,  did  not  assume  the  corn- 
possession  was  taken  of  the 
jken  measures  for  securing  the 
ind  the  prisoners,  who  amount- 
,e  ordered  thfe  place  to  be  evac- 
after  re-embarked  his  troops. 
3  was  rendered  by  Commodore 
»vering   the   landing,    and  in 
Mmy's  batteries.    The  Amen- 
sd  and   wounded,  amounted  to 
a  British  to  930  men,  including 

n  to  Sacket's  Harbor,  prepare- 
G  for  the  attack  on  Fort  George, 
I  strong-holds   on  the  Niagara, 
1  vainly  attempted  the  year  be-  ] 
gs  being  made  ready,  the  army 
K)ard  the  fleet,  and  on  the  23d  of 
I  the  contemplated  enterprise.— 
ok  place  on  the  27th  of  the  samej 
nodore  Chauncey  placed  his  ve» 


HJBTOBT  OF  THE   LATB  WAB. 


75 


sels  in  the  best  position  for  annoying  the  batte- 
ries and  forts  of  the  enemy,  while  the  trans- 
ports for  crossing  the  inv  Jing  army  passed  the 
river.  General  Dearborne,  at  this  time  in  very 
Ill-health,  issued  his  orders  from  his  bed,  and 
the  immediate  direction  of  the  attack  was  en- 
trusted to  Grenernl  Lewis,  the  next  in  command. 
Generals  Chandler,  Winder  and  Boyd,  with 
their  respective  brigades,  advanced  to  the 
shore  with  unshaken  firmness  under  a  heavy 
fire.  The  advance  under  Cols.  Scott  and  For- 
sythe,  having  effected  a  landing,  and  being 
assisted  by  the  fire  from  the  ships,  soon  cleared 
the  batteries.  But  the  British  throwing  them- 
selves into  a  ravine,  completely  arrested  for  a 
time,  the  progress  of  the  Americans.  After  a 
warm  engagement,  they  were  at  last  compelled 
to  retire,  and  the  whole  line  of  fortifications  was 
abandoned.  As  soon  as  sufficient  force  was 
formed,  they  advanced  to  the  assault  of  fort 
George,  which  they  found,  hastily  abandoned, 
with  the  flag  still  flying,  which  was  torn  down 
by  Col.  Scott  and  Major  Hindman.  The  retreat- 
ing enemy  was  pursued  some  distance  by  Cap- 
tain Riddle  and  some  other  active  officers.  Up- 
wards of  600  Canadian  militia  surrendered  their 
arms,  and  were  permitted  to  depart  on  parole : 


-  iikatiii'MMiiii 


n: 


7e         «        HIWOBV  OF  THK   lATB  VTAB. 

If       I  Brie  ma  •"  *e  te™""»B  »'""'' 

a,«U  «.d  e.ve  the  enemy  the  fu»  6  e^^  " 
the  darkness  of  the  night,  anj  the  elouds  o. 
Ikt  «nde,ing  it  imfossihle  to  disfngntsh  .b 


OF  THE  IAT«  ^*"' 

rs  were  killed,  and  276  wound- 
^ners.  The  loss  on  our  side 
„d  in  wounded.  The  next 
Old  all  the  remaining  British 

e  blown  up. 

llecting  their  forces,  amounting 

treated  towards  the  head  of  the 

,er  end  of  the  Burlington  Bay. 

ued,  they  must  inevitably  fa^^ 
f  the  Americans,  and  thus  would 

the  contests  along  the  North 
cr  On  the  Ist  of  June,  Gener- 
and  Winder,  were  despatched 
,uble  the  force,  to  effect  the  all- 

•t     This  forc«  advanced  to  Stony 
hoy  encamped,  in  expectation  of 

overtake  the  enemy  next  day. 
no  hope  of  escaping  but  through 

about  one  o'clock  the  same  night 
lly  upon  the  main  guard,  and  rais- 
.  shout,  ran  towards  the  main  body 
leans;  the  25th  Regiment,  under 
,  ot  Col.  Smith,  had  lam  on  their 
,i„K  roused  by  the  noise,  instantly 
.ave  the  enemy  the  first  fire.    But 

,  of  the  night,  and  the  clouds  of 
ring  it  impossible  to  distinguish  ob 


HISTORY  OP  THB  LATB  WAB.  "H 

jects,  some  confusion  ensued.     A  number  of  the 
British  became  intermixed  with  the  American 
BrtiUerists,  and  the  two   American   Generals, 
while  endeavoring  to  ascertain  tlie  cause,  were 
taken  prisoners.     At  day-break  the  American 
army  was  found  entire,  but  the  enemy  had  re- 
treated in  great  disorder,  their  spirits  complete- 
ly broken  by  this  unexpected  reception,  and  now 
Riving  up  all  for  lost.     Unfortunately  for  us,  no 
officer  was  left  to  command,  whoso  station  was 
such  as  to  warrant  the  responsibility  of  pursu- 
ing the   vanquished  enemy.    Col.  Brun,  on  a 
consultation  with  his  officers,  resolved  on  a  re- 
treat, which  was  effected,  and  the  British  under 
General  Vincent,  soon  after  receiving  reinforce- 
ments, were  enabled  to  maintain  their  ground. 

The  absence  of  Commodore  Chauncey,  and 
the  American  forces  from  Sackefs  Harbor,  had 
well  nigh  given  an  opportunity  to  the  British  of 
retaliating  the  recapture  of   York.      Towards 
the  latter  end  of   May,  the  British  squadron, 
with  about  1200  men,  suddenly  appeared  before 
the  harbor.    The  alarm  was  instantly  given, 
and  the  regulars  and  militia  posted  in  the  neigh- 
borhood hastened  to  the  aid  of  those  left  to  de- 
fend the  place,  which  did  not  amount  to  one  half 
the  number  of  the  ossmlants.    The  command 


•gff  nnTORT  or  Tni  latb  wab. 

was  assumed  by  General  Brown  of  the  militia. 
The  militia  under  colonel  Mills  posted  to  op^se 
their  landing,   after  ono  fire,  fled  in  the  moa 
shameful  manner,  in  spite  of  the  efforts  of  tne.r 
commander.    -A  more  cffieient  resistan^  was 
„ade  by  the   regulars  under  Colonel    Baccus, 
and  Major  Lavelle  and  Aspinwall,  but  who  were 
compelled  to  retreat.     In  the  mean  time.  Gen- 
eral Brown  having  rallied  the  mihtm,  fell  on 
the  enemy's  rear,  and    compelled  them  ^o  fly 
with  precipitation,  and  utterly  discomfited.  The 
American  loss  was  160  in  killed  and  wounded ; 
that  of  the  British,  at  least  double  that  number. 
Sir  George  Provost,  the  Governor  of  Canada, 
retired,  leaving  his  laurels  behind  h.m.     Had 
this  attack  proved  successful,  the  loss  of  the 
United  States  would  have  been  immense,  as  this 
place  was  the  store-house  of  all  military  sup- 
plies, both  for  the  naval  and  land  service.     A 
considerable  quantity  of  public  stores  were  un- 
fortunately  destroyed  by  our  own  officers,  under 
a  belief  that  the  enemy  had  obtained  possession 

of  the  place.  .  •  ,    • 

In  the  midst  of  these  occurrences,  which  in 
general  wore  so  brilliant  an  appearance,  we  ex- 
perienced a  severe  reverse.  General  Lewis, 
who  assumed  the  command  after  the  resignation 


»F  TH*   LATB  WA«. 

eneral  Brown  of  the  militia, 
olonel  Mills  posted  to  oppose 
r  one  fire,  fled  in  tho  most 
1  spite  of  tho  efforts  of  their 
lore  efficient  resistance  was 
lars  under  Colonel   Baccus, 
and  Aspinwall,  but  who  were 
at.    In  the  moan  time,  Gen- 
g  rallied  the  militia,  fell  on 
and   compelled  them  to  fly 
and  utterly  discomfited.  The 
s  160  in  killed  and  wounded; 
1,  at  least  double  that  number. 
)st,  the  Governor  of  Canada, 
is  laurels  behind  him.     Had 
d  successful,  the  loss  of  the 
lid  have  been  immense,  as  this 
3re-house  of  all  military  sup- 
le  naval  and  land  service.     A 
itity  of  public  stores  were  un- 
)yed  by  our  own  officers,  under 
3nemy  had  obtained  possession 

)f  these  occurrences,  which  in 
brilliant  an  appearance,  we  ex- 
ere  reverse.  General  Lewis, 
!  command  after  the  resignation 


BUTORY  OF  THB   LAT»  WAB. 


70 


of  General  Dearborne,  finding  himself  mfested 
by  several  large  detachments  of  tho  enemy  in 
the    neighborhood  of   Fort  George,  where  he 
had  fixed  his  head  quarters,  ordered  Col.  Boerst- 
ler  to  march  with  about  600  men  and  disperse 
one  of  these  at  a  place  called  La  Loutro  house. 
The  Colonel  had  not  proceeded  half  way,  when 
he  was  assailed  in  front  and  rear  by  the  British 
and  Indians,  and  was  compelled  for  some  time 
to  contend  against  very  suncrior  numbers.     He 
was  at  last  induced  to  surrender  his  whole  force, 
greatly  to  the  chagrin  of  the  Americans,  at  be- 
ing thus  thrown  away  to  no  purpose.      But  tor 
this  affiiir  the  opening  of  the  campaign,  in  this 
quarter,  would  have  been  regarded  as  far  trans- 
cending our  warmest  expectations  of  success. 

About  this  time  the  Six  Nations  declared  war 
against  the  British,  with  a  formal  proclamation, 
and  entered  into  an  alliance  with  the  United 
States,  stipulating,  however,  to  renounce  their 
barbarous  usages  in  battle,  a  promise  which 
they  faithfully  kept. 

We  now  turn  our  attention  for  a  moment  to 
the  Westward,  and  the  operations  along  the  fron- 
tier of  the  Ohio.  In  that  quarter,  a  most  glo- 
rious victory  crowned  our  arms  early  m  the 
month  of  August.  Until  that  time  fort  Meigs  had 


80  nwroBY  of  thk  u^t*  wab. 

remained  unmolested,  while  the  Americ«|8  wait- 
ed for  the  result  of  the  navul  war  on  Lake 
Erie,  before  the  adoption  of  any  ulterior  move- 
men  .  Proctor,  desirous  of  ombarrassmg  the 
^Reparations  of  Harrison,  and  of  open.ng  the 
Kier  to  the  inroads  of  his  allies,  the  savages, 
Riving        m  an  opportunity  of  murdermg  the 

Lpfng  babe  and  helpless  female   determmed 
to  destroy  the  different  forts  wh.ch  covered  the 
settlements.   Fort  Stephenson,  on  the  Sandusky, 
^as  the  first  selected.     To  cover  hm  real  mten- 
tion,  he  sent  Tecumseh  to  make  a  push  on  fort 
Meigs,  while  ho  appeared  before  fort  Stephen- 
son aid  demanded  it  to  surrender.    The  off.cer 
commandingit,wasayouth  of  twenty-one  year« 
of  age.  Major  Croghan,  who  had  already  d.stm- 
guis^d  himself  at  the  siege  of  fort  Me.gs.    He 
had  received  orders  to  abandon  this  place  on  the 
-approach  of  the  enemy,  but  taking  all  responsi- 
bil  ty  upon  himself,  he  boldly  set  the  threats  of 
the  ungVnerous  enemy  at  defiance.  The  fort  was 
surrounded  with  pickets  and  a  ditch  about  s.x 
feet  wide.  The  assailants,  consisting  of  regulars 
and  Indians,  to  the  number  of  800,  commenc- 
ed the  attack  >»ith  several  pieces  of  artillery, 
with  which  they  attempted  to  make  a  breach. 
But  those  within,  secured  the  point  at  which  the 


OP  TUB   I^TB  WAR. 

ed,  whvlo  the  Americans  wait- 
of  the  naval  war  on  Lake 
doptitm  of  any  ulterior  move- 
csirous  of  embarrassing  the 
larrison,  and  of  opening  the 
oods  of  his  allies,  the  savages, 
>l,portunity  of  murdering  the 
i  helpless  female,  determined 
Rerent  forts  which  covered  the 
t  Stephenson,  on  the  Sandusky, 
cted.     To  cover  his  real  inten- 
cumsch  to  make  a  push  on  fort 
appeared  before  fort  Stephen- 
ed  it  to  surrender.    The  officer 
^as  a  youth  of  twenty -one  years 
roghan,  who  had  already  distin- 
ttt  the  siege  of  fort  Meigs.    He 
lers  to  abandon  this  place  on  the 
,  enemy,  but  taking  all  responsi- 
iself,  he  boldly  set  the  threats  of 
enemy  at  defiance.  The  fort  was 
1  pickets  and  a  ditch  about  six 
assailants,  consisting  of  regulars 
,  the  number  of  800,  commenc- 
with  several  pieces  of  artillery, 
.y  attempted  to  make  a  breach, 
n.  secured  the  point  at  which  the 


mSTORV   OF  THR   LATR  WAR.  ^1 

artillery  was  directed,  by  placing  bugs  of  sand 
and  even  of  flour.  They  now  resolved  to  at- 
tempt the  place  by  storm.  Colonel  Short,  with 
a  column  of  350  men,  taking  advantage  of  the 
smoke,  presented  himself,  at  the  point  before 
mentioned,  and  crying  out  to  his  men  to  follow 
him,  and  to  give  the  d d  Yankees  no  quar- 
ters, londing  in  the  ditch  with  nearly  half  of  his 
men.  His  progress  was  sooner  arrested  thon 
ho  could  have  expected.  The  Americans,  who 
were  chiefly  young  volunteers,  had  carefully 
concealed  a  six  pounder,  the  only  one  which 
they  possessed,  in  the  bastion,  which  protected 
that  part  of  tiie  ditch;  the  match  was  put  to  it,  ^ 
and  being  loaded  with  slugs  and  musket  balls, 
instantly  cut  the  savage  assailants  to  pieces;  not 
one  escaped  the  fatal  place.  The  rolling  mu.s- 
quetry  at  the  same  time,  produced  great  havoc 
among    those    who    were    Btill  on  the  outside. 

The  assailants  fled,  pursued  by  indescribable 
terror,  while  the  Indians  f  lUowed  without  dar- 
ling to  cast  a  glance  behind.  During  the  night, 
irregular  firing  was  kept  up,  while  the  humane 
land  generous  Americans  did  every  thing  in  their 

wer  to  relieve  the  wounded  in  the  ditch.    The 
jcxt  morning  the  enemy  disappeared  in  haste, 
[leaving  behind  a  considerable  quantity  of  public 
4* 


82 


BCrrOBY  OF  THE  LATK  WAM. 


Stores.  The  loss  of  the  British  exceeded  200 
men,  while  the  Americans  had  only  a  few 
wounded,  and  that  while  engaged  in  offering 
relief  to  the  sufferers. 

Croghan  and  his  bravo  comrades.  Captain 
Hunter,  Lieutenant  Johnson,  Baylor,  Meeks, 
and  Anthony,  ware  hailed  with  the  plaudits  of 
their  country.  The  first  received  the  brevet 
rank  of  Lieutenant  Colonel  in  tiie  regular  ser- 
vice. The  Indians,  after  this  defeat,  were  so 
disgusted  with  their  allies,  that  they  were  about 
to  abandon  them.  The  frontier  was  completely 
protected  from  further  molestation. 


CHAPTER  X. 


Captuie  of  the  British  Squadron  on   Lalie  Erie- 
of  Proctor. 


-Defeat 


Commodore  Perry,  whose  name  now  adorns 
the  page  of  our  history,  was  entrusted,  at  the 
commencement  of  the  spring,  with  the  impor- 
tant task  of  creating  a  force  to  oppose  the  British, 
who  suice  the  surrender  of  Hull,  had  rode  tri- 
umphant on  Erie.  The  trees  that  gj'ew  on  its 
shores  were  commanded  to  descend  upon  the 
waves,  and  bear  our  sailors  to  meet  the  haughty 
foe.    In  consequence  OjT  exertions  almost  uu- 


rOBY   OF  THE  tATK  WA«. 

loss  of  the  British  exceeded  200 
the  Americans  had  only  a  few 
id  that  while  engaged  in  offering 
lufferers. 

and  his  bravo  comrades,  Captam 
utenant  Johnson,  Baylor,  Meeks, 
f,  >y3re  hailed  with  the  plaudits  of 
■y.  The  first  received  the  brevet 
utenant  Colonel  in  tiie  regular  ser- 
Indians,  after  this  defeat,  were  so 
th  their  allies,  that  they  were  about 
:hem.  The  frontier  was  completely 
om  further  molestation. 


T 

nnrnli 


BDTOItT   OF  THE  LATE  WAR. 


88 


CHAPTER  X. 

le  Btitiah  Squadron  on   Uke  Erie— Defeat 
of  Proctor. 

)EE  Pkeuy,  whose  name  now  adorns 
»f  our  history,  was  entrusted,  at  the 
nent  of  the  spring,  with  the  impor- 
'creating  a  force  to  oppose  the  British, 
the  surrender  of  Hull,  had  rode  tri 
jn  Erie.  The  trees  that  grew  on  iu 
jre  commanded  to  descend  upon  the 
i  bear  our  sailors  to  meet  the  haughty 
wnaequence  o*"  exertions  almost  un- 


paralelled  in  the  history  of  naval  preparations, 
before  the  last  of  August  a  fleet  was  provided, 
consisting  of  the  following  vessels— the  Law- 
rence of  21  guns,  Niagara  of  20,  Caledonian  of 
3,  Ariel  of  4,  Scorpion  and  Somers,  each  of  2, 
Tigress,  Trippe  and  Porcupine,  each  of  1;  in 
all  amounting  to  69  guns. 

The  British  fleet,  under  Commodore  Barclay, 
consisted  of  the  Detroit,  19  guns;  Queen  Char- 
lotte, 17;  Lady  Prevost,  13;  Hunter,  10;  Little 
Belt,  3;  Chippewa,  1;  in  all  69  guns.  Thw 
fleet  was  consequently  superior  in  force  to  that 
of  the  Americans,  although  on  their  side  there 
was  a  difierence  in  the  number  of  ships. 

No  sooner  was  the  American  Commodore  oa 
the  Lake,  than  he  went  in  pursuit  of  his  antago- 
nist, who  manifested  no  wish  to  decline  the 
meeting.      This,  however,  did  not  take  place 
until  the  12th  of  September,  near  Put-m-Bay. 
The  American  squadron  at  anchor,  perceiving 
the  British  bearing  down  upon  them,  got  under 
way     The  American  flag  ship,  the  Lawrence, 
out-sailed  the  rest  of  the  squadron,  and  came  tu 
close  quarters  with  the  Queen  Charlotte  and  the 
Detroit.    Against  these  two  vessels  the  contest 
was  heroically  maintained  for  two  hours,  unti 
every  gun  was  rendered  useless,  and  nearly  all 


fl4  HI8TOBY   or  THK   LATE  WAB. 

onboardeither  kiUedor  wounded.  At  this  critical 
moment,  the  other  American  vessels  which  had 
been  kept  back  were  coming  up,  and  the  Com- 
modore, with  admirable  coolness,  embarked  in 
his  boat  with  the  intention  of  shifting  his  flag  to 
the  Niagara.     This  was  executed  in  the  midst 
of  a  heavy   fire.    Captain  Elliot  immediately 
seconded   his  views,  and   while  Perry  led  up 
this  vessel  in   a  handsome   style,  volunteered 
to   bring  the  other  vessels  into  action.    The 
Commodore  breaking  through  the  enemy's  line, 
^ured  out  such  tremendous  broadsides  as  soon 
compelled  the  two  largest  vessels  to  strike,  and 
the  flag  of  the  Lawrence,  which  had  been  haul- 
ed down,  was  again  hoisted.    The  remainder 
of  the  American  fleet  coming   up,  the  action 
in  a  few  minutes  terminated  in  the  capture  of 
the  whole  British  squadron,  a  thing  almost  un- 
exampled in  naval  warfare. 

«  We  have  met  the  enemy,"  said  Commodore 
Perry,  "and  they  are  ours;"  two  ships,  two 
brigs,  one  schooner,  and  one  sloop. 

The  number  of  prisoners  exceeded  that  of 
the  captors.  Twenty-six  Americans  were  kill- 
ed, and  96  wounded.  Lieutenant  Brooks,  of  the 
marines,  was  killed,  as  also  several  valuable 
American  oflicers.    The  Captain  and  first  Lieu 


by,  V 


ear 
iar< 


OF  THE   LATE  WAR. 

led  or  wounded.  At  this  critical 
American  vessels  which  had 
^ere  coming  up,  and  the  Com- 
nirable  coolness,  embarked  in 
intention  of  shifting  his  flag  to 
hia  was  executed  in  the  midst 
Captain   Elliot  immediately 
3WS,  and   while  Perry  led  up 
handsome   style,  volunteered 
her  vessels  into  action.    The 
king  through  the  enemy's  line, 
tremendous  broadsides  as  soon 
vo  largest  vessels  to  strike,  and 
Awrence,  which  had  been  haul- 
gain  hoisted.    The  remainder 
n  fleet  coming   up,  the  action 
3s  terminated  in  the  capture  of 
sh  squadron,  a  thing  almost  un- 
al  warfare. 

et  the  enemy,"  said  Commodore 
ley  are  ours;"  two  ships,  two 
ner,  and  one  sloop, 
of  prisoners  exceeded  that  of 
'wenty-six  Americans  were  kill- 
ided.  Lieutenant  Brooks,  of  the 
tilled,  as  also  several  valuable 
rs.    The  Captain  and  first  Lieu 


w^^p^mw  ^mmw-im* . 


HISTORY   OF  THE    LATE   WAR. 


85 


tenant  of  the  Queen  Charlotte  were  killed;  Com- 
modore Barclay  severely  wounded.  The  con- 
duct of  the  victors  to  the  unfortunate  was,  on 
this  occasion,  marked  by  its  usual  humanity  and 
generosity. 

By  this  event,  the  field  of  glory  was  laid  open 
to  Greneral  Harrison,  and  the  brave  volunteers 
of  Kentucky  and  Ohio.  The  choicest  troops  of 
the  West  were  alret^dy  collected  for  the  purpose 
of  following  up  the  success  of  Perry,  if  it 
should  please  Providence  to  award  it.  The 
venerable  Governor  of  Kentucky,  Samuel  Shel- 
by, was  at  the  head  of  the  volunteers  of  that 
state,  accompanied  by  the  first  men  of  the  com- 
monwealth. The  troops  being  taken  on  board 
the  fleet,  were  fansported  to  the  Canada  side, 
where  they  found  the  villages  and  forts  evac- 
uated. Proctor  having  fled  in  dismay  up  the 
Thames.  After  leaving  General  M'Arthur  to 
take  command  at  Detroit,  General  Harrison,  at 
the  head  of  about  3000  men,  commenced  a  rapid 
march  in  pursuit  of  the  fugitive  army.  In  u 
few  days  he  gained  upon  then™  so  rapidly  as  to 
capture  considerable  quantities  of  their  stores. 

On  the  6th  of  October,  it  was  discovered  that 
lear  the  Moravian  towns,  within  a  few  miles 

larch,  they   were  drawn  up  in  battle   array 
H 


w«r 


gg  HIBTOBY   OF  THE  I^TE  WAB. 

stinate;  they  at  lirsi  Q^^g,„or  Shcl 

on  the  Amoncan  infantry,  wnen  « 

bv  brought  up  «  -ei^iment  to  their  support.  The 
^!d^s  foui.  *  .rerately  as  long  as  tne  . 

IT    uf\      i  .>f  Tecumseh,  encouraging 
and  terrible  s.    -  f  ^  ^^^^_^^    j,.,, 

them  to  1«-^;-;  J  ^^;,,,'e,  ^e  fell  by  the 
SoT'^l    i:norbythatofCol.WhUe, 
l^^foM  Indian  fighter,  and  a  volun^erj 
th  8  occasion,)  seems  to  be  a  question     rU  unse 
S     Whiteiy  was  found  dead  near  the  spot, 


agre( 


■f««??t.-- 


IBTORY  OF   THE   lATB  WAR. 


87 


OF  THE  lATE  WAB. 

,  troops  into  two  lines,  consist- 
id  Trotter's  brigades,  under 
with  the  mounted  men  of  Col. 
,e  advanced  against  <he  enemy, 

drawn  up  between  the  river 
,  the  Indians  under  Tecumseh, 

jhwood  of  the  swamp.  It  sud- 
itself  to  General  Harrison,  to 
with  his  mounted  men  through 
xtry  drawn  up  among  the  open 

•ortune  awarded  the  most  com- 
this  suggestion.  Johnson  sud- 
hrough  their  ranks,  formed  m 
was  preparing  to  give  tlvm  a 
•adly  rifle,  when  they  surrender 

[ndians  the  contest  was  more  ob- 
t  first  made  some  impressiion  up- 
^infantry,  when  Governor  Shcl 

„  -e^iment  to  their  support,   i  He 
desperately  as  long  as  the  u 

iiAit  ..f  Tecumseh,  encouragmg 
t,  could  be  heard;  but  already  his 
.;bered.  Whether  he  fell  ^  the 
Johnson  or  by  that  of  Col.  WhUe- 
.dian  fighter,  and  a  volunteer  on 
)  seems  to  be  a  question  Ulunse- 
ly  was  found  dead  near  the  spot, 


and  Col.  Johnson  severely  wounded,  and  about 
thirty  Indians  lay  dead  around  the  body  of  their 

chief. 

General  Proctor  had  in  the  mean  time,  made 
his  escape  by  means  of  swift  horses. 

The  conduct  of   the  Kentuckians,  who  had 
been  vilely  slandered  by  Proctor,  was  magnani- 
mous in  the  highest  degree.      They  returned 
not  evil  for  evil,  but  to  the  prisoners  in  their 
possession,  many  of  whom  had  participated  in 
ibc  horrid  murders  of  the  river  Raisin,  they 
vtre  humane  and  attentive.     The  immediate 
consequence  of  the  defeat  of  the  allies,  and  the 
death  of  Tecumseh,  was  a  cessation  of  hostilities 
on  the  part  of  the  savages;  they  came  in  end 
agreed  to  take  up  the  hatchet  on  the  side  of  the 
United  States.  The  whole  of  the  North  Western 
Territory  was  once  more  in  the  possession  of  the 
Americans,  with  the  exception  of  Michilimack- 
inac,  which  was  not  given  up  until  the  close  of 
the  war.    The  volunteers  and  militia  returned 
to  their  homes,  and  General  Harrison  was  at 
liberty  with  the  troops  to  co-operate  with  the 
forces  on  the  Niagara. 

Commodore  Chauncey,  at  this  time  was  mas- 
ter of  Lake  Ontario.  He  had  repeatedly  at- 
Itenipied  to  bring  his  antagonist  to  action,  but 


i»W!^''«=^-- 


88  HIBTOBY   OF  THE  lATB  WAB. 

in  vain.  Several  running  fights,  however,  took 
place,  in  which  the  British  knight  displayed 
great  naval  skill  in  making  his  escape.  This 
shyness  was  not  a  little  increased  by  the  victo- 
ry obtained  by  Commodore  Perry;  in  fact,  after 
■  this  occurre«ce,  he  studiously  avoided  coming 
to  action,  without  a  superiority  so  decided  as  to 
leave  no  doubt  of  the  result. 

The  nation  was  in  the  highest  degree  delight- 
ed with  the  glorious  termination  of  the  West- 
ern war.     Fortune  appeared  to  smile  upon  their 
arms  «t  last.    Canada  must  now  be  ours.     The 
administration,  anxious  to  gratify  the  public  ex- 
pectations, lost  no  i-ne  in  making  the  attempt, 
the  General  in  command  was  an  old  and  expe- 
rienced officer  of  acknowledged  abilities;  Gen- 
eral Wilkinson  had  been  ordered  from  the  South, 
and  in  the  course  of  the  summer  had  assumed 
the  directions  of  the  military  operations  on  the 
Niagara;  while  General  Hampton,  another  offi- 
cer of  expcrienc*-,  took  command  of  the  forces 
at  Pktigburg.    The  Secretary,  General  Arm- 
strong, possessed  the  confidence  of  the  nation 
for  his  capacity  and  the  vigorous  measures  which 
he  seemed  to  adopt.     This  officer,  in  order  to  be 
near  the  iield  of  action,  and  direct  the  move- 


■"^'^^  ^:^W^'!^fW^' 


ment! 
thofr 

Th 
montt 
Harb( 
on  tl 
not  a 

Th 
concei 
ever, 
desigi 
tion  V 
fence. 
Ham; 
compl 
Uppei 
far  m 
first  3 
the  ti 
discip 
and  f( 

It  ' 
that  < 
way, 
sever 
iouslj 
dark 


OF  THE  lATB  WAH. 

running  fights,  however,  took 
he  British  knight  displayed 
in  making  his  escape.  This 
I  little  increased  by  the  victo- 
mmodore  Perry;  in  fact,  after 
le  studiously  avoided  coming 
a  superiority  so  decided  as  to 
the  result. 

in  the  highest  degree  delight- 
ous  termination  of  the  West- 
e  appeared  to  smile  upon  their 
mda  must  now  be  ours.     The 
ixious  to  gratify  the  public  ex- 
)  t:-ne  in  making  the  attempt. 
)mmand  was  an  old  and  expe- 
acknowledged  abilities;  Gen- 
id  been  ordered  from  the  South, 
s  of  the  summer  had  assumed 
the  military  operations  on  the 
General  Hampton,  another  offi- 
e,  took  command  of  the  forces 
Fbe  Secictary,  General  Arm- 
I  the  confidence  of  the  nation 
^d  the  vigorous  measures  which 
pt.     This  officer,  in  order  to  be 
f  action,  and  direct  the  move- 


IIISTOBT   OF  THE   lATB  WAR. 


89 


ments  of  the  army,  established  his  office  near 
the  frontier. 

The  army  of  General  Wilkinson,  in  the 
month  of  October,  was  transferred  to  Sacket's 
Harbor,  leaving  but  a  small  number  of  troops 
on  the  Niagara,  where  General  Harrison  did 
not  arrive  until  sometime  after  his  departure. 

The  destination  of  the  army  was  studiously 
concealed.  Such  dispositions  were  made,  how- 
ever, as  induced  the  enemy  to  believe,  that  the 
design  was  to  attack  Kingston,  while  the  inten- 
tion was  in  reality  to  descend  the  river  St.  Law- 
rence, and  forming  a  junction  with  General 
Hampton,  proceed  directly  to  Montreal,  thus 
completely  girdling  the  tree,  and  mastering  all 
Upper  Canada.  The  season,  however,  was  so 
far  advanced,  and  this  although  practicable  the 
first  year,  had  become  much  more  difficult  from 
the  time  which  had  been  allowed  the  enemy  to 
discipline  their  militia,  augment  their  forces, 
and  fortify  the  river. 

It  was  not  long  before  the  3d  of  November, 
that  General  Wilkinson  could  get  fairly  under 
way,  while  he  began  already  to  experience  the 
severity  of  the  season.  The  British  wore  anx- 
iously watching  his  movements.  Choosing  a 
dark  night,  he  passed  the  fortified  post  called 
H* 


^  nnroBT  of  thb  latb  wah. 

Prescott,  but  not  undiscovered:  in  his  disoent  he 
was  very  much  annoyed  by  their  musquetry, 
and  the  next  morning  they  were  found  hangmg 
upon  his  rear,  with  all  the  force  that  could  be 
collected.    Having  to  pass  the  Rapids  of  the 
river,  of  about  eight  miles  in  length,  General 
Brown  was  detached  with  a considerableforce 
to  clear  the  way  for  the  passage  of  the  flotilla. 
This   was  not  effected  without  considerable 
difficulty;  General  Brown,  after  a  smart  skir- 
mish,  dispersed  the  enemy,  but  it  being  too  tate 
to  proceed,  the   flotilla   lay  by  for  the  uight. 
In  the  morning,  when  about  to  advance,  u  con- 
siderable  force  was  discovered  in  the  rear,  on 
the  Canada  side;  a  halt  was,  therefore,  «,m. 
manded,  while  General   Boyd  was  ordewd  to 
face  about  with  his  brigade,  and  beat  oflF  the 
enemy.    The  Americans   were  drawn   up  in 
three  columns,  commanded   by  Generals  Cov- 
ington, Swartwout  and  Coles.    After  a  warm 
action,  which  lasted  an  hour,  in  which  the  en- 
emy were  obliged  to  give  way  before  the  bay- 
onet, they  were  at  length  compelled  to  retreat, 
The  Americans,  having   expended  their  amu- 
nition,  were   obliged   to    make   a   retrograde 
movement.     A  violent  storm  arose  about  the 
same  time,  which,  together  with  the  approach 


DF  THB   L4TB  WAS. 

[discovered:  in  his  discent  he 
inoyed  by  their  musquetry, 
ing  they  were  found  hanging 
th  all  the  force  that  could  be 
to  pass  the  Rapids  of  the 
{ht  miles  in  length,  General 
icd  with  a  considerable  force 
for  the  passage  of  the  flotilla, 
effected  without  considerable 
1  Brown,  after  a  smart  ?kir- 
he  enemy,  but  it  being  too  late 
lotilla   lay  by  for  the  night, 
when  about  to  advance,  &  con- 
'OS  discovered  in  the  rear,  on 
I  a  halt  was,  therefore,  com- 
Jenerol   Boyd  wos  ordered  to 
his  brigade,  and  beat  off  the 
mericans   were  drawn    up  in 
ommanded    by  Gaierals  Cov- 
ut  and  Coles.     After  a  warm 
3ted  an  hour,  in  which  the  en- 
d  to  give  way  before  the  bay- 
it  length  compelled  to  retreat, 
having   expended  their  amu- 
iiged    to    malio   a    retrograde 
'iolent  storm  arose  about  the 
h,  together  with  the  approach 


niSTORV   OF   THE   LATE   WAa. 


01 


of  night,  contributed  to  clear  the  field  of  bat- 
tle. From  the  place  in  which  it  was  fought, 
this  has  been  called  the  battle  of  Chrystler's 
field;  on  the  American  side  there  were  about 
1600;  the  force  of  the  British  was  about  the 
same.  The  American  loss  was  339  in  killed 
and  wounded;  among  the  former,  General  Cov- 
ington, a  brave  and  gallant  officer.  The  en- 
emy's loss  is  supposed  to  have  been  still  great- 
er. There  is  no  doubt  of  their  defeat,  as  they 
were  thenceforth  compelled  to  suffer  the  Amer- 
icans to  continue  their  course  unmolested. — 
General  Wilkinson,  on  reaching  Ogdensburg, 
had  sent  orders  to  General  Hampton,  to  meet 
him  at  St.  Kegis,  at  which  place  he  had  now 
arrived  without  finding  him.  This  officer,  from 
the  disclosure  made  to  him  of  the  state  of 
General  Wilkinson's  supplies,  and  from  the  dis- 
tance he  would  be  placed  from  his  magazines. 
Rather  with  the  great  difficulty  of  transpor- 
tation, on  account  of  the  badness  of  the  roads, 
had  concluded  to  take  upon  himself  the  res- 
ponsibility of  consulting  those  circumstances. 
He  had  therefore  attempted  to  penetrate  to  the 
St.  Lawrence  in  another  dii-eetion,  but  without 
success,  and  after  falling  back  at  a  place  call- 
ed the  Four-Cornera,  where  he  waited  the  or- 


,.iK*.«ij(w»a,>,'ni»iWi-k(:ii  i.^niiwn  uH'  ■  ii'.».*,^^w.'. 


•01    '  nWTOnY   OF  THB   tATB  WAR. 

ders  of  tho  commander-in-chief,  professing  still 
a  willingness  to  cc.-operato  in  any  plan  ho  might 
adopt     Thus  terminated  the  mighty  invasion 
of  Canada,  from  which  so  much  was  expect- 
ed. The  commanding  General  threw  the  blame 
upon  Hampton,  and  the  Secretary  of  War  on 
both      But  the  truth  is,  the  season  was  too  lar 
advanced,  and  the  force  was  not  sufficient  for 
the  contemplated  enterprise.     The  disappomt- 
ment  to  tho  nation,  however,  tended   to  brmg 
into   discredit    the  leaders  of  this  campaign, 
which   turned   out  so  barren  of  glory.     Ihe 
army  retired  into  winter  quarters. 

This  military  movement  was  calculated  only 
on  the  chance  of  success,  while  in  war  there 
are  most  usual'.y  two  chances;  no  allowance 
was  made  for  the  possibility  of  a  failure.    Its 
bad   effects  were   soon  experienced.    General 
Harrison   had   received  orders  to  move  down 
the  St.  Lawrence  and  join  the  army;  the  whole 
Niagara   frontier  was  left  unprotected.     Gen. 
M'Clure,  who  was   left   in   command  at   fort 
George,  finding  that  the  enemy  was  approach- 
ing in  considerable  numbers,  blew  up  the  lort 
and  evacuated  the  Canada  side,  at  the  same 
time  burning  the  village  of  Newark,  situated 
^      near  the  fort:  an  act  at  the  time  universally 


War 

T 

busi 


OF  THE    LATB  WAR. 

wiider-in-chief,  professing  still 

operate  in  any  plan  ho  might 

luinntcd  the  mighty  invasion 

which   so  mucli  was  expect- 

iiling  General  threw  the  blame 

and  the  Secretary  of  War  on 

riitli  is,  the  season  was  too  far 

10  force  was  not  sufficient  for 

J  enterprise.     The  disappoint- 

ion,  however,  tended   to  bring 

ho  leaders  of  this  campaign, 

out  so  barren  of  glory.    The 

ito  winter  quarters. 

f  movement  was  calculated  only 

of  succesj,  while  in  war  there 

I'.y  two  chances;  no  allowance 

the  possibility  of  a  failure.     Its 

re   soon  experienced.    Generol 

received  orders  to  move  down 

ice  and  join  the  army;  the  whole 

ier  was  left  unprotected.     Gen 

was   left   in   command  at   fort 

g  that  the  enemy  was  approach- 

rable  numbers,  blew  up  the  fort 

the  Canada  side,  at  the  same 

the  village  of  Newark,  situated 

an  act  at  the  time  universally 


nnroRY  of  tub  latx  m-a». 


03 


censured  and  lamented  in  the  United  States, 
and  which  the  government  took  tho  earliest 
opportunity  to  disavow. 

It  seems  that  tho  General  hod  received  or- 
ders to  burn  tho  village,  in  case  it  should  be 
found  necessary  for  defence;  misconceiving  the 
orders,  he  set  fire  to  the  place  on  his  depar- 
ture. His  conduct  was  submitted  to  a  Court 
of  Inquiry,  who  passed  a  severe  censure  upon 
it.  The  British,  not  content  with  this,  crossed 
the  river  ia  considerable  force,  took  fort  Ni- 
agara by  surprise,  put  the  garrison  to  death, 
and  then  laid  waste,  with  fire  and  sword,  the 
whole  frontier,  from  ten  to  fifteen  miles.  The 
flourishing  village  of  BuflTaloe  was  laid  in  ash- 
es, together  with  several  others.  It  was  after- 
wards declared  by  Sir  George  Provost,  that  he 
was  satisfied  with  this  am]>le  measure  of  ret-al- 
iation. 


CHAPTER  XI. 


AVar  on  the  Atlantic  Sea  Coast — Disgracerul  conduct  of 
tlie  British. 

The  first  year  of  the  war  found  England  too 
busily  engaged  in  the  great  events  of  Europe, 


94 


HI8T0SY   OF  THB   LATH  WAS. 


to  think  of  directing  much  of  hor  attention  td 
tho  contest  with  America.  Excepting  by  a  genj 
eral  proclamation  of  blockade,  our  Atlantic  coa.i 
was  not  molested.  J 

In  the  year  1813,  she  set  about  carrymg  oij 
hostilities  in  a  more  serious  manner.    She  ha- 
threatened  much  of  burning  all  tho  Amenc 
sea-port  towns,  and  laying  waste  the  country.! 
She  thought  to  intimidate  us  by  these  barbarousi 

threats.  „  .    .  j  I 

In  the  month  of  March,  the  Poictiers  madel 
her  appearance  in  tho  Delaware,  and  sendingi 
out  shallops,  commenced  a  species  of  maraud- 
ing warfare.     The  property  of  private  citizeiwl 
was  the  object  of  their  ambition.     By  the  Uw.| 
of  war,  the  persons  and  property  of  nonnjom- 
batantsare  exempted  from  it.s    levastations - 
Without  benefiting  the  cause  for  which  they 
fouRht,  the  British  ruined  many  of  the  inhabit- 
ants  of  the  country.     Admiral  Beresford,  the 
commander  of  the  squadron,  made  a  demand  on 
the  inhabitants  of  Lewistown  for  water  and  pto- 
visions;  and  on  being  refused,  ineffectually  at- ' 
tempted  to  obtain  them  on  compulsion,  by  bom- 
barding the  place.    The  militia  under  Colonel 
Davis  and  Major  Hunter,  manfully  resisted  ev- 
ery  attack. 


lOP  TBI   LATH   WAM. 

Ing  much  of  hor  attention  td 
inorica.  Excepting  by  a  geni 
)f  blockade,  our  Atlantic  coail 


3,  she  set  about  carrying 
ro  serious  manner.    She  hn 
of  burning  all  the  Americ 
id  laying  waste  the  country.l 
imidato  us  by  these  barbsroiul 

r  •  I 

>f  March,  the  Poictiers  madel 
n  the  Delaware,  and  sendingl 
monced  a  species  of  maraud-j 
e  property  of  private  citizenil 
>  their  ambition.     By  the  lawsj 
ons  and  property  of  non-oom- 
ipted  from  it.s    ievastations. —  I 
ig  the  cause  for  which  they| 
h  ruined  many  of  the  inhabit- 
itry.     Admiral  Beresford,  the  I 
i  squadron,  made  a  demand  on 
Lewistown  for  water  and  pro- 
)oing  refused,  ineffectually  at- 
them  on  compulsion,  by  bom- 
The  militia  under  Colonel 
Hunter,  manfully  resisted  ev- 


I 


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IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-3) 


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Hiotographic 

Sciences 
Corporation 


23  WEST  MAIN  STREET 

WEBSTER,  N.Y.  14580 

(716)  872-4503 


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CIHM/ICMH 

Microfiche 

Series. 


CIHM/ICMH 
Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for  Historical  Microreproductions  /  Institut  Canadian  de  microreproductions  historiques 


1 '  j!tt.'Ujmjiwia!«a.?gg.i 


HISTOBT   OP  THB  lATB  WAR. 


95 


I    From  the  Delaware  they  proceeded  to  the 
Ichesapeake,  where  their  course  was  marked  by 
I  the  most  lawless  depredations  and  conflagra- 
Itions.    The  genius  of  history  blushes  as  she  re- 
I  cords  them.    There  is  not  one  solitary  act  of 
1  benevolence  or  magnanimity  to  rescue  the  char- 
lacter  of  the  British  officers  and  seamen,  from 
the  dark  disgrace;  or  if  there  be,  it  has  been 
I  hitherto  unknown  to  us.*    Indiscriminate  havoc 
I  was  every  where  committed.    One  of  their  first 
I  exploits  was  plundering   and   destroy mg   the 
Ismail  village  of  Frenchtown,  a  place  of  mercan- 
Itile  deposit  and  transit,  on  Elk  river.     From 
I  Frenchtown  they  proceeded  to  Havre  de  Grace, 
I  where  they  perpetrated  the  grossest  outrages  on 
Idecency  and  humanity  without  the  slightest  pre- 
Itext    Every  house  of  this  little  village  was  con- 
signed to  the  flames,  and  a  scene  of  most  dis- 
l  graceful  plunder  was  acted,  in  which  officers 
and  men  were  mingled  alike;  the  plunder  con- 
Isisted  of  household  furniture,  bed  clothes,  pans 
land  spoons!    They  burnt  and  destroyed  many 
valuable  manufactories,  after  which  they  went 
to  the  next  village  church,  not  to  ask  forgive- 
ness of  their  sins,  but  in  order  to  wreak  their 
vengeance  on  this  peaceful  dwelling,  by  deta- 
•  The  conduct  of  Sir  Petet  Parker  is  an  exception. 


■,Wfti>jiW*J-'^J»""""" 


ge  H18TOKV   OF  THE  LATF   WAU. 

eing  it  in  the  most  Shameful  manner 
^"  o  .    ._ ,  ..  „  „„mfi  ftcts  on 


After 


tor  port  of  JUM. «"  f  J,    folk.    On 

Jkr^h   vSS»' nd  M«y-.r,  .o^ 
fl.ght.      IM  »     b  ^^^^_  „j 

f,oq«nt\y  »'"  ''°'  '"    „h„lo»„son,from 
„ch  harassed  through  Iho  «hol« 

*htlno»n*r.h,e„av.Uorootopro.ec,| 

'"tIHL.w^  oommKted  .o  .he  charge  .( 
rie^Tayler,  of  .he  ™li.ia  ofVirgm...   N. 

„,,»„,   mta.e  preoautton.  for  exeeuUag 
..lans   roquisUe  .o  he  adopted.    The  »»ii 
Cu    was   happily  -edly.hev.lori 
the  marines,  mi  the  s«>.o  of  V>rg.o..  rd.ev 


L 


-   OF  TUB  lATF   WAK. 

,ost  shameful  manner.  After 
ated  the  same  acts  on  the  two 
ericktown  and  Georgetown- 
mrfare  continued  until  thclat- 
,  ,vhen  their  movements  indvca- 
ipon  the  town  of  Norfolk.  On 
,f  the  bay,  the  militia  on  seve- 

Kavely  put  the  marauders  to 
vginians  and  Marylandcrs  were 
,d  out  from  their  houses,  and 
through  the  whole  season,  from 
shifting  scene  of  the  war.  The 
ich  intersected  with  .reeks  and 
vas  impossible  for  any  force  to 
from  one  point  to  another,  to  re. 

tory  warfare.     The  great  o\.y^^ 
,nce  of  Norfolk,  the  troops  we  e 

neighborhood  of  that  place,  and 
•onsiderable  naval  force  to  protect 


HISTORY  OF  THE   LATE   WAB. 


97 


was  committed  to  the  charge  of 
or,  of  the  militia  of  Virginia.  No 
more  capable  of  providing  the  mi- 
.te  precautions  for  executmg  the 
ite  to  be  adopted.  The  town  o 
,  happily  saved  by  the  valor  of 
and  the  state  of  Virginia  reliev 


ed  from  a  mojt  dangerous  enemy;  for  had  pos- 
session been  taken  of  this  place,  the  enemy 
could  have  done  them  incalculable  mischief. 
Wherever  the  enemy  met  a  steady  resistance 
from  the  legular  troops  or  militia,  after  this, 
they  retreated  precipitately  to  their  boats,  or 
returned  to  their  fleet.  The  chief  leader  in 
this  warfare,  so  dishonorable  to  the  British 
nation,  was  Admiral  Cookburn,  whose  conduct 
was  on  every  occasion,  that  of  a  ferocious, 
unfeeling  buccanier. 

On  the  21st  of  June,  the  movements  indica- 
ted  an  attack  on  Craney  Island,  and  on   the 
ne.\t  day  they  landed  upwards  of  200  men,  for 
itlifc  purpose  of  assailing  the  batteries  on  the 
west  end  of  the  Island.    Shortly  after  the  de- 
barkation  of  these  troops,  forty-five  or  fifty 
)outs  filled  with  sailors  and  marines,  left  the 
iliipping  and  approached  the  north  side  of  the 
ll.sland.    The  naval  fou       f  the  United  States, 
united  i  i  the  defence  of  the  post.    The  enemy 
l«as  completely  beaten  off.     His  loss  was  not 
less  than  200,  besides  deserters.     Four  or  five 
Ibarges   wem   sunk.     The   Centipede,  60  feet 
long.  Admiral  Warren's  boat,  with  24  oars,  was 
•aptured,   with    22    prisoners,  a   brass   three 
.lounder,  and  a  number   of   muskets,    pistols 
5  I 


gg  UI8T0KV   OF  THS  lATE  WAS. 

.      .1    «.«.      Forty  British  deaerters  were 
and  'f^^'^'-J'^^^  others  were  dispersed  j 
r!^Th;:u.rTherewasnotone.an, 

ro^he  American  side..^^^^^^^ 
Theene^yexasperated^^^^^^^ 
tempt,  m  order  ^o  give  a  i  of  Han-.p- 

'^'T  ':l  the  Sy     ?n  ^hetth  of  Ju  J 
rra:r.::tn^-d  after  a  gallant  res^ 

ance  on  th^  part  of  the  militia  and  a  few  regu- 
::"who  werrthcre,  the  town  was  take.    T 
«^„e  which  ensued,  far  surpassed  any  th.ng 
^fore  acted  by  the  ferocious  enemy  w.th  whoj 
^e  had  to  contend;  such  conduct  should  be  hd 
1  to  universal  execration,  in  order  that  th  I 
"cTu  Llion  of  public  opinio,  may  prev^ 
the  occurrence  of  the  like  among  civilized  p^ 
Z  ^he  utmost  licentiousness  was  permittdl 
Tnihe  treatment  of  the  unfortunate  females  who! 

fel  into  the  power  of  the  enemy :  without  regardi 
to  their  respectability  in  society,  they  werj 
seil  by  ruffians,  and  several  of  them  actualb 
"^  in  conseciuen<.  of  the  shocking  treaH 
they  received.  A  poor  old  man,  sick  a-bed  wd 
^t  upon  by  them  and  shot  in  the  "-  o  H 
aged  wife,  who  was  also  wounded,  and  the  J 
fShful  dog  was  put  to  death.    The  sick  m  th 


pern 

littl 


OF  THB  U^TE  W*"* 

«orty  British  deserterB  were 
many  others  were  dispersed 
try.    There  was  not  one  man 
cansidetluringtheday. 
asperated  at  this  inglorious  at- 
ogive  a  loose  to  his  thirst  foi 
1  to  attack  the  village  of  Hair-p- 
the  bay.    On  the  26th  of  June, 
men,  and  after  a  gallant  resist- 
■t  of  the  militia  and  a  few  regu- 
lere,  the  town  was  taken.    The 
tsved,  far  surpassed  any  thing 
the  ferocious  enemy  with  whom 
3od;  such  conduct  should  be  held] 
\  execration,  in  order  that  the 
of  public  opinio.i  may  prevent 
:  of  the  like  among  civilized  peo- 
lost  licentiousness  was  permitted 
It  of  the  unfortunate  females  who 
wer  of  the  enemy :  without  regatdj 
BCtability  in  society,  they  were 
ans,  and  several  of  them  actuall; 
luence  of  the  shocking  treatmeni 
A  poor  old  man,  sick  a-bed,  wa! 
hem  and  shot  in  the  arms  of  h> 
rho  was  also  wounded,  and  then 
^as  put  to  death.    The  sick  in  th( 


HISTORV   OF   THE    LATE   WAR. 


09 


hospitals  were  not  spared,  and  every  act  of  sav- 
age violence  was  committed,  apparently  without 
any  attempt  to  restrain  the  perpetrators.    A  let- 
ter on  the  subject  of  this  infamous  conduct,  so 
deeply  implicating  the  character  of  the  British 
nation,  was  addressed  by  General  Taylor  to  Sir 
Sidney  Beckwith,  who  at  first  stated  that  it  was 
in  retaliation  for  the  shooting  a  man  at  Craney 
Island,  while  he  hung  to  a  burgc  that  had  over- 
set.    A  Court  of  Inquiry  was  immediately  insti- 
tuted, which  completely  disproved  the  charge; 
on  this  being  communic    ^d  to  Sir  Sidney,  he 
sent  a  verbal  reply,  that  he  was  sorry  for  the 
excesses  committed  by  his  troops,  but  that  he 
would  in  future  prevent  the  falling  into  such 
conduct.     A  savage  chieftain  could  have  alleged 
the  same  kind  of  excuse  for  ungovernable  war- 
riors whom  he  led.    The  subject  underwent  an 
examination  before  a  committee  of  Congress, 
who  reported  upon  it  in  terms  as  strong  as  lan- 
guage could  express  them. 

Having  thus  given  an  account  of  what  hap- 
pened on  the  coast,  a  war  which  redounded  so 
little  to  the  honor  of  England,  we  shall  pass  m 
review  the  important  war  of  the  South  with  the 
Creek  Indians,  which  was  closely  connected 
with  the  hostilities  with  England.    Very  soon 


1 


100  niSTOBY   OF  THK   LATI!  WAS. 

after  the  commencement  of  the  war,  the  Semi- 
no"  Indians  on  the  borders  of  Georgm,  wUh  a 
number  of  runaway  negroes  began  to  make  n 
roads,  and  to  infest  the  frontiers.    On  the  1  th 
rtptember,  1812,  Captain  WilUams^  of  the 

marines,  convoying  some  ^^^f^^^^^;'^, 
military  supplies,  was  attacked  by  a  party  ot 
TherLp^and  compelled  to  retreat  w.th  the 
Ls  of' several  hundred  men,  himself  rece.vmg 
1  ^ound  of  which  he  afterwards  died    Towards 
the  close  of  the  same  month.  Col.  Norma^, 
with  about  120  Georgia  volunteers    proceeded 
towards  the  Alaci  ua  towns,  with  a  view  of  ch««- 
Xg  the  savages.    He  was  attacked  by  a  large 
body%f  Indians,  apd  after  a  charp  conflict  corn- 
ed them  to  fly,  leaving  their  kmg,  Pame,  _>n 
Z  ground;  after  repeated  efi-orts  to  rcgam  the 
dead  body,  they  at  length  succeeded  by  brmgmg 
up  additional  numbers,  after  which  they  moved 
1     They  soon  after  returned,  however,  with  a 
stiil  more  powerful  party,  the  Georgians  appre- 
hending this,  had  hastily  thrown  up  a  bre^t 
work,  in  which  they  were  closely  besieged.  The 
^ge  was  kept  up  for  some  days,  until  the  ene^ 
„,y  dispaired  of  making  any  -P'— '  ;" 
which  they   retired,  but  returned  m   a  httle 
while,  under  the  belief  from  the  stillness  wMch 


reig 
abai 
salu 
how 
giai 
wh( 
deg 
abl< 
wei 
ssti 


If   OF  THE   LATE  WAB. 

ncement  of  the  war,  the  Semi- 
the  borders  of  Georgia,  with  a 
way  negroes  began  to  make  in- 
fest the  frontiers.    On  the  nth 
1812,  Captain  Williams,  of  the 
ying  some  wagons,  loaded  with 
38,  was  attacked  by  a  party  of 
nd  compelled  to  retreat  with  the 
hundred  men,  himself  receivmg 
ch  he  afterwards  died.   Towards 
he  same  month,  Col.  Norman, 
)  Georgia  volunteers,  proceeded 
acl  ua  towns,  with  a  view  of  chas- 
ges.    He  was  attacked  by  a  large 
,s,  and  after  a  charp  conflict  com- 
,  fly,  leaving  their  king,  Paine,  ".n 
fter  repeated  efforts  to  regain  the 
.y  at  length  succeeded  by  bringmg 
numbers,  after  which  they  moved 

nn  after  returned,  however,  with  a 
,arful  party;  the  Georgians  appre- 
had  hastily  thrown  up  a  brea.st 
:h  they  were  closely  besieged.  The 
pt  up  for  some  days,  until  the  ene- 
l  of  making  any  impression,  on 
retired,  but  returned  in  a  little 
the  belief  from  the  stillness  w^ich 


HIBTORY   OF  THE   lATE  WAR.  101 

reigned  in  the  camp,  that  the  Americans  had 
abandoned  it.  On  crowding  up  to  it  they  wore 
saluted  with  a  volloy  or  two,  which  sent  them 
howling  to  the  woods.  After  this  the  Geor- 
pians  decamped  and  reached  the  place  tron. 
whence  they  set  out,  after  encountering  no  small 
degvee  of  fatigue.  This  affair  haa  a  most  favor- 
able operation  on  the  .ni.ds  of  the  savages,  who 
were  thenceforth  exceedingly  shy  of  the  frontier 

93ttlers.  .     , 

A  more  serious  N'ar  broke  out  in  the  course 
of  the  year  1813,  with  the  Creek  nation.     The 
American  government  had  taken  great  pains  to 
civilize  this  people,  and  hai  spared  no  expense 
to  effect  this  humane  object.    But  its  endeavors 
had  met  with  no  more  than  a  partial  success,  for 
the  greater  number  of  the  natives  obstinately 
adhered  to  their  Indian  manners,  and  violently 
opposed  the  introduction  of  the  arts  of  civiliza- 
tion     The  celebrated  Tecumseh  had  paid  them 
a  /isit,  in  which  '.Ao  threw  among  them  addition 
al  causes  of  discord.    A  civil  war  took  place, 
and  the  more  savage  part  of  the  nation  proving 
the  strongest,  the  rest  were  either  compelled  to 
fly,  or  to  join  those  who  were  for  war  with  the 
United  State  ^    A  wonderful  degree  of  supersti- 
tion and  fan  aacism  were  brought  into  play  on 
I* 


102  IIISTOBY   OF  THE   LATE  WAS. 

the  occasion.    The  unfortunate  people  ..ere  led 
to  believe  by  their  priests  or  magicians,  that 
they  would  certainly  defeat  us  by  the  assistance 
of  their  potent  charms.     The  credulous  crea- 
tures were  persuaded  to  destroy  all  their  cattle, 
so  that  there  should  be   nothing  among  them 
that   wore   the    appearance   of   civil.zation.-- 
They   were  further  stimulated  by  the  British 
agents,  who  also   gave  them  some   supply  of 
arms,  and  made  them  promises  of  assistance.  It 
was   not  however,  until  towards  the   close  of 
August   that  hostilities   openly  commenced  on 
their  part;  but  this  was  a  commencement  of  the 
most  shocking  kind. 

Foreseeing  the  coming  storm,  the  settlers  on 
the  Mobile  and  Alabama  had  collected  in  small 
forts  or  stations,  erected  for  their  security.     At 
one  of  these,  called  fort  Mims,  about  300  per- 
sons, men,  women  and  children  had  taken  ref- 
use    It  was  defended  by  Major  Beasly,  of  the 
Mississippi  Territory,  with  about  130  volunteers. 
'     A  party  of  600  Creeks  suddenly  appeared  before 
this  place  and  attacked  it  at  noonday.    Unfortu- 
nately the  gate  happened  to  be  open,  and  the  In- 
dians under  the  command  of  Watterford,  a  half 
breed,  rushed  towards  it  with  a  hideous  shout. 
The  Major  attempted  to  close  the  gate,  and  act- 


r  OF  THE  LATE  WAH. 


HIBTOKV   OF  TIIK  LATE  WAK. 


103 


he  unfortunate  people  were  led 
leir  priests  or  magicians,  that 
inly  defeat  us  by  the  assistance 
charms.     The  credulous  crea- 
loded  to  destroy  all  their  cattle, 
lould  be   nothuig  among  them 
appearance   of   civilization.— 
ther  stimulated  by  the  British 
so   gave  them  some   supply  of 
them  promises  of  assistance.  It 
rer,  until  towards  the   close  of 
Btilitiea   openly  commenced  on 
this  was  a  commencement  of  the 

kind. 

ihe  coming  storm,  the  settlers  on 
[  Alabama  had  collected  in  small 
8,  erected  for  their  security.     At 
called  fort  Mims,  about  300  per- 
mcn  and  children  had  taken  ref- 
lefended  by  Major  Beasly,  of  the 
rritory,  with  about  130  volunteers. 
(  Creeks  suddenly  appeared  before 
attacked  it  at  noonday.    Unfortu- 
B  happened  to  be  open,  and  the  In- 
,e  command  of  Watterford,  a  half 
1  towards  it  with  a  hideous  shout, 
tempted  to  close  the  gate,  and  act- 


ed bravely  whilst  life  remained,  but  ho  soon  fell 
loZly  wounded.  The  Indians  were  at  Icng^ 
:;iled%ith  the  exception  of  a  ew  who  h^ 

taken  the  block-house,  from  which  they  were 
after  slme  time  dislodged.  Being  harangued  by 
Sehief.  a  second   assault  was   now   rnade 

which  unhappily  proved  more  -j;f  ^^^. 
,,each  was  made  in  ^^^^^^11:^^1:1:^ 
ges  gained  possession  ^^ ^^ ^^^^  ,^^^,  ,,  ^r- 

.eceededinsettmgfin>totherc.fs^^^^^^^^.^^ 
were  the  agon. zing  shrieks  ot 

::;[h:%;  the  whole  of. .^ 

people  perished   by  savage  violence, 
consumed  by  the  flames. 

Thisattrocious  outrage  demanded  a  promp 

ye.,s  »"'W*^  7;„  „,^«  .wc,  of  Geor. 
"*'  TtIT^  a'^^so the  MWssippi  .orri • 

rying  war  into  the  country  ot  me  u 


■HIMMMMm 


104  niBTOKV   OF  THK   I^TB  WAB. 

Th.,!  ton  prevemod,  if  .he  United  S».c.  1 
„,ghl  h.»e  ton  p  ^^^^  ;_j  ,^„ 

El^vllen,  in  employing  »de«iUn8l 

Generals  Floyd  of  Georgm,  Coffee,  White  ^d 
Jackson,  of  Tennessee,  in  the  course  of  one  1 

leason,  humbled  them  in  the  dust. 

On  he  shortest  notice,  Gen.  Jackson  brought  | 
to^Lr  a  brigade  of  mounted  "Ae-n  and  - 
valry,  and  immediately  penetrated  the  Creek 
I^unt  y.    On  the  2d  of  November  he  detached 
Gen    II  Coffee,  with  about  900  men,  to  destroy  I 
fhe  TuHushatches   town,  where  a  consider, 
ble  body  of  Creek  warriors  had  assembled.    A I 
ITL  sent  to  draw  them  out,  wh.ch  com- 
Sy    succeeded,  and  the   Creeks  suddenly 
■  tnd  themselves  directly  opposed  to  the  whole 
American  force.  They,  notwithstandmg,  fough^ 
with  astonishing  desperation,  but  at  last  were  I 


OF   THE   UATB  WAR. 


niSTORY    OF   TlIE  LATK  WAR. 


105 


.  was  the  only  way  to  ensure 
38cd  frontiers,  ond  at  the  nanic 
ho  rising  of  the  other  southern 

is  but  little  doubt,  that  all  this 
prevented,  if  the  United  States 

d  to  employ  the  Indians  in  the 
The  infernal  policy  of  the 
.cnt  in  employing  and  exciting 
ted  people,  was  the  cause  of  the 
hich,  as  a  just  retribution,  over- 
A  series  of  brilliant  victories 
rate  and  deluded  foe,  gained  by 
1  of  Georgia,  Coffee,  White  and 

-nnessee,  in  the  course  of  one 

d  them  in  the  dust. 

est  notice,  Gen.  Jackson  brought 

rado  of  mounted  riflemen  and  ca- 
'mediately  penetrated  the  Creek 
the  2d  of  November  he  detached 
.  with  about  900  men,  to  destroy 
tches   town,  where  a  considera 
reek  warriors  had  assembled.    A 
nt  to  draw  them  out,  which  com- 
eded,  and  the   Creeks  suddenly 
Ives  directly  opposed  to  the  whole 
ce    They,  notwithstanding,  fought 
ing  desperation,  but  at  last  were 


eo.iipelled  to  retreat  to  their  village,  where  they 
continued  their  rc«istancc,  obstinately  refusing 
garters  u«.il  every  one  perished  The  women 
Ld  children  of  the  village,  to  t'^c  number  of 

eighty,  were  taken  prisoners.     Cot  ce  had  hvo 

„,en  killed,  and  41  slightly  wounded. 
In  the  morning  of  the  7lh,  a  friendly  Indian 

brought  intelligence  to  Gen.  Jackson,  thaa^u 

,Uirty  miles  below  ^^--^^  ;'>«'°  Ta  TaTe- 
bcr  of  Creeks  collected  at  a  place  called   rale 
dega,  engaged  in  besieging  some  friendly  I. 
dians,  who  must  inevitably  perish  unless  si^ed. 

'^^irte  promptitude  and  decision,  wliich 
Jud  his  Military  career,  and  is  the  secret 

his   extraordinary    success,  he  marched  at  12 
his   exiruu.u       J  „t  thP  head  of  1200  men, 

o'clock  the  same  night,  attl^ehcau  o 
and  arrived  within  six  miles  of  the  pl'^ce  »« 

irng.     At  midnight  ^^  ^^^^  ^^^^^^^ 
at  7  o'cloc-k  was  within  a  mile  of  ^^-J^^^ 
Having  approached  almost  unperceived,  within 
"oTards  of  the  Indians,  the  battle  commenced 

Z  tfeir  part  with  great  ^^^V^^^^^^^l^^t 
on  all  sides,  they  attempted  to  '"[^^e    he  r  «« 
c^pe    but  soon  found  themselves  inclosed,  two 
rjanies  at  first  giving  way  a  spa^-    e^ 
through   which  a  considerable  number 
6* 


1 


illHiiiMtMMM«i*» 


•wirrr 


108 


HISTORY  OF  THE  LATE   WAH.' 


enemy  escaped,  and  were  pursued  to  the  moun 
tains  with  great  slaughter.  In  this  action  the 
American  loss  was  15  killed  and  80  wounded. 
That  of  the  Creeks  was  little  short  of  300; 
their  whole  force  exceeded  1000. 

General  Cooke,  who  commanded  the  other  di- 
vision of  Tennessee  militia,  on  the  11th,  detach- 
ed Gen.  White  from  fort  Armstrong,  where  he 
was  encamped,  against  the  hostile  towns  on  the 
Tallapoose  river.  After  marching  the  whole 
night  of  the  17th,  he  surprised  a  town  at  day- 
light, containing  upwards  of  300  warriors,  60 
of  whom  were  killed  and  the  rest  taken  prison- 
ers. Having  burnt  several  of  their  villages, 
which  had  been  deserted,  he  returned  on  the 
23d,  without  loosing  a  single  man. 

The  Georgia  militia,  under  Gen,  Floyd,  ad- 
vanced into  the  Creek  country,  about  the  last  of 
the  month.  Receiving  information  that  great 
numbers  of  Indians  were  collected  on  the  Au- 
tossee  towns,  on  the  Tallapoose  river,  a  place 
they  called  their  beloved  ground,  and  where,  ac- 
cording to  their  prophets,  no  white  man  could 
molest  them.  Gen.  Floyd,  placing  himself  at  the 
heel  of  900  militia,  and  400  friendly  Creeks, 
marched  from  his  encampment  on  the  Chatahou- 
chie.  On  the  evening  of  the  29th,  he  encamped 
F 


T 


ms 
ani 
mc 
wi 

se" 
ke 

CO 

of 
fei 
•icj 
la 

SI 

sc 

tl 

si 
tl 
Ii 
n 
E 


OHY  OF  THE  LATE  WAH. 

id,  and  were  pursued  to  the  moun- 
lat  slaughter.  In  this  action  the 
3  was  15  killed  and  80  wounded. 
Creeks  was  little  short  of  300; 
)rce  exceeded  1000. 
loke,  who  commanded  the  other  di- 
nessee  militia,  on  the  11th,  detach- 
to  from  fort  Armstrong,  where  he 
d,  against  the  hostile  towns  on  the 
iver.     After  marching  the   whole 

17th,  he  surprised  a  town  at  day- 
ling  upwards  of  300  warriors,  60 
re  killed  and  the  rest  taken  prison- 
;  burnt  several  of  their  villages, 
leen  deserted,  he  returned  on  the 
loosing  a  single  man. 
gia  militia,  under  Cen.  Floyd,  ad- 
;he  Creek  country,  about  the  last  of 

Receiving  information  that  great 
Indians  were  collected  on  the  Au- 
I,  on  the  Tallapoosa  river,  a  place 
heir  beloved  ground,  and  where,  ac- 
iieir  prophets,  no  white  man  could 
,  Gen.  Floyd,  placing  himself  at  the 
I  militia,  and  400  friendly  Creeks, 
tn  his  encampment  on  the  Chatahou- 
le  evening  of  the  29th,  he  encamped 
F 

.  ...   giiiiiiliiinwi 


HISTORY   OF  THE   LATE  WAH. 


107 


within  ten  miles  of  the  place,  and  resuming  his 
march  at  1  o'clock,  reached  the  towns  about  six, 
and  commenced  an  attack  upon  both  at  the  same 
moment.    His  troops  were  met  by  the  Indians 
with  great  bravery;  and  it  was  not  until  after  a 
severe  battle,  that  they  were  forced  by  his  mus- 
ketry and  bayonets,  to  fly  to  the  thicket  and 
copse  in  the  rear  of  the  towns.     In  the  course 
of  three  hours,  the  enemy  was  completely  de 
feated,  and  the  villages  in  flames.  Eleven  Amer- 
icans were  killed  and  60  wounded,  among  the 
latter,  the  General  hiffiself;  of  the  enemy,  it  is 
supposed,  that  besides  the  Autossee  and  Tallas- 
see  king^ ,  ..pwards  of  200  were  killed. 

This  just  retribution,  it  was  hoped,  would  bring 
these  unhappy  beings  to  a  proper  sense  of  their 
situation;  but  unfortunately  it  h&J  not  this  effect, 
they  still  persisted  in  their  hostilities  against  us. 
In  the  month  of  December,  General  Claiborne 
marched  a  detachmsnt  against  the  towns  of 
Eccanachaca,  on  the  Alabama  river.  On  the 
22d,  he  came  suddenly  upon  them,  killed  30  of 
their  warriors,  and  after  destroying  their  villa- 
ges, returned  with  a  trifling  loss. 

After  the  battle  of  Talledcga,  General  Jack- 
son was  left  with  but  a  handful  of  men,  in  conse- 
quence of  the  term  of  the  militia  having  expired 


108  niSTOKY  OF  THE  lATE  WAR. 

On  the  14th  of  January,  !  o  was  fortunately  re- 
inforced by  800  volunteers  from  Tennessee,  and 
soon  after  by  several  hundred  friendly  Indians. 
He  was  shortly  after  joined  by  Gen.  Coffee,  with 
a  number  of  officers,  his  militia  having  also  re- 
turned home.    On  the  I7th,  with  a  view  of  ma- 
king a  diversion  in  favor  of  Gen.  Floyd,  and 
«t  the    same  time  to   relieve  fort   Armstrong, 
which  was  said  to  be  threatened,  he  penetrated 
the  Indian  country.  On  the  evening  of  the  21st, 
believing   himself,    from   appearances,   in   the 
vicinity  of  a  large  body  of  Indians,  he  encamp- 
ed with  great  precaution,  and  placed  himself  m 
the  best  attitude  of  defence.     About  day-light  he 
was  furiously  attacked,  and  after  a  severe  con- 
test, the  Creeks  were  compelled  once  more  to 
yield.     They  fled  in  every  direction. 

General  Jackson  being  apprehensive  of  anoth- 
er attack,  fortified  his  camp  for  the  night;  the 
next  day  fearing  a  want  of  provisions,  he  found 
it  necessary  to  retreat,  and  before  night  reach- 
ed Enotachopco,  having  passed  a  dangerous  de- 
file withoiV  interruption.  In  the  morning,  he 
nad  to  cross  a  defile  still  more  dangerous,  where 
he  might  expect  aii  attack;  he  therefore  deter- 
mined to  pass  at  some  other  point.  The  most 
ludicious  arrangements  having  been  made  for 


the 

he 

had 

flan 

seal 

was 

gav 

wh 

abc 

the 

Act 

to 

cip 

hai 

iti 

no 

Cc 

tir 

CO 

fe 

SI 

L 

in 

f€ 

e: 
P 


naae  lor      v 

wHmm 


tY  OF  THE  LATE  WAR. 

January,     ;  was  fortunately  re- 
volunteers  from  Tennessee,  and 
everal  hundred  friendly  Indians, 
after  joined  by  Gen.  Coffee,  with 
ficers,  his  militia  having  also  rc- 
On  the  17th,  with  a  view  of  ma- 
m  in  favcr  of  Gen.  Floyd,  and 
ime  to   relieve  fort   Armstrong, 
1  to  be  threatened,  he  penetrated 
itry.  On  the  evening  of  the  21st, 
self,    from   appearances,   in   the 
irgo  body  of  Indians,  he  encamp- 
precaution,  and  placed  himself  in 
e  of  defence.     About  day-light  he 
attacked,  and  after  a  severe  con- 
es were  compelled  once  more  to 
fled  in  every  direction, 
kson  being  apprehensive  of  anoth- 
ified  his  camp  for  the  night;  the 
ng  a  want  of  provisions,  he  found 
o  retreat,  and  before  night  reach- 
»,  having  passed  a  dangerous  de- 
iterruption.     In  the  morning,  he 
defile  still  more  dangerous,  where 
ect  aii  attack;  he  therefore  deter- 
s  at  some  other  point.    The  most 
mgements  having  been  made  for 


HISTORY   OF  THE   LATE  WAS. 


109 


the  dispositon  of  his  force  in  case  of  an  attack, 
he  moved  forward  towards  the  pass  which  he 
had  selected.     The  front  guard,  with  part  of  the 
flank  columns,  together  with  the  wounded,  had 
scarcely   crossed    the  creek,  when  the   alarm 
was  given  in  the  river.    Jackson  immediately  . 
gave  orders  for  his  right  and  left- columns  to 
wheel  on  their  pivot,  and  crog3ing  the  stream 
above  and  below,  assail  the  flanks  and  rear  of 
the  enemy.    But  to  his  astonishment  and  morti- 
fication, when  the  word  was  for  these  columns 
to  form,  and  a  few  guns  were  fired,  they  pre- 
cipitately gave  way.    This  unaccountable  flight 
had  well  nigh  proved  fatal:  it  drew  along  with 
it  the  greater  part  of  the  centre  column,  leavmg 
not  more  than  26  men,  who  being  formed  by 
Colonel  Carroll,  maintained  their  ground  for  a 
time  against  overwhelming  numbers.     All  that 
could  now  be  opposed  to  the  enemy,  were  the 
few  who  remained  of  the  rear  guard,  the  artille- 
ry company,  and  Capt.   Rupel's  company  of 
spies     Their  conduct,  however,  was  admirable. 
Lieut.  Armstrong,  with  the  utmost  coolness  and 
intrepidity,   dragged,  with  the  assistance  of  a 
few  more,  the  six  pounder  up  the  h.U,  although 
exposed  to  a  heavy  fire;  and  having  gained  his 
position,  loaded  the  piece  with  grape,  and  fired 
K 


.^HMiaiiiitiiiMai 


>, ]  .in'ij. '■-Hill  imjiif" 


110  HI8TOBY   OF  THK  LATE  WAB. 

it  with  such  effect,  that  after  a  few  diwAarges 
the  enemy  were  repulsed. 

The  Indians  were  pursued  for  several  miles 
6y  Col.  Carrol,  Col.  Higgins  and  Captains  Elli- 
ott and  Pickins.  Captain  Gordon,  of  the  spies, 
had  partly  succeeded  in  turning  their  flank,  and 
by  his  impetuous  charge,  tended  to  restore  the 
day.  The  Americans  now  continued  their  march 
without  further  molestation.  In  these  different 
engagements,  20  Americans  were  killed  and  76 
wounded;  in  the  last  battle  180  of  the  Creeks 
were  slain. 

General  Floyd,  who  was  advancing  from  the 
Chatahouchie,  was  attacked  in  his  camp  by  a 
large  body  of  Indians,  an  hour  before  day.— 
Thv-y  stole  upon  the  sentinels,  fired  upon  them, 
and  then  rushed  with  great  impetuosity  towards 
the  line.     The  action  soon  became  general:  the 
front  of  both  flanks  were  closely  pressed,  but 
the  firmness  of  the  officers  and  men  repelled 
their  assaults  at  every  point.     As  soon  as  it  be- 
came sufficiently  light,  General  Floyd  strength- 
ened his  right  wing,  and  formed  his  cavalry  in 
the  rear,  then  directed  a  charge;  the  enemy 
were  driven  before  the  bayonet,  and  being  pur- 
sued by  the  cavalry,  many  of  them  were  killed. 
The  loss  of  General  Floyd  was  17  killed  and 


132 

be  t 

decui 

was 

It 

featj 

the 

Cr© 

una 

ruir 

side 

beii 

exp 

cee( 

rea< 

Yoi 

sho 

scl( 

fori 

At 

nee 

net 

wo 

Th 

leb 

col 

ex( 


lY   OF  THK  LATE  WAB. 

jct,  that  after  a  few  discharges 
I  repulsed. 

were  pursued  for  several  miles 
Col.  Higgins  and  Captains  Elli- 
.  Captain  Gordon,  of  the  spies, 
5cded  in  turning  their  flank,  and 
la  charge,  tended  to  restore  the 
icans  now  continued  their  march 
molestation.  In  these  different 
:0  Americans  were  killed  and  76 
le  last  battle  180  of  the  Creeks 

yd,  who  was  advancing  from  the 
was  attacked  in  his  camp  by  a 
Indians,  an  hour  before  day.— 
,n  the  sentinels,  fired  upon  them, 
id  with  great  impetuosity  towards 
action  soon  became  general:  the 
flanks  were  closely  pressed,  but 
if  the  officers  and  men  repelled 
it  every  point.     As  soon  as  it  be- 
lly light,  General  Floyd  strength- 
wing,  and  formed  his  cavalry  in 
1  directed  a  charge;  the  enemy 
lefore  the  bayonet,  and  being  pur- 
ivalry,  many  of  them  were  killed, 
ieneral  Floyd  was  17  killed  and 


HISTORV    OF  THE  lATE  WAH. 


Ill 


132  wounded.  That  of  the  Indians  could  not 
be  ascertained ;  37  of  their  warriors  were  left 
dead  on  the  field,  but  it  was  thought  their  loss 
was  very  considerable. 

It  might  be  supposed  that  these  repeated  de- 
feats would  tend   to  destroy  the  influence  of 
the    fanatical    prophets   among   the    unhappy 
Creeks;   but  they  still   persisted   in   the  most 
unaccountable  manner  in  completing  their  own 
ruin.     General  Jackson,  having  received  con- 
siderable reinforcements  from  Tennessee,  and 
being  joined  by  some  Indians,  set   out  on  an 
expedition  to  the  Tallapoose  river.     He  pro- 
ceeded from  the  Coose  on  the  24th  of  March, 
reached  the   southern  extremity  of  the   New 
Youca  on  the  27th,  at  a  place  called  the  Horse- 
shoe Bend  of  the  Coose,  where  the  Creeks  had 
selected  a  strong  natural  position,  and  having 
fortified  it,  awaited  the  attack  of  their  enemies. 
A  breastwork  had  been  thrown  up  across  the 
I  neck,  of  considerable   strength   and  compact- 
I  ness.    The  area  thus  enclosed  by  the  breast- 
works, was  little  short  of  one  hundred  acres. 
The  warriors  from  Oakfu&kee,  Oakshaya,  Hil- 
lebees,  the  Fish  Ponds  and  Eupata  towns,  had 
collected  their  force  at  this  place,  in   number 
exceeding  a  thousand. 


initmtiiiiiiimniT  *"-  '"* — i-.ai,...-'wffi>if« 


118  U18TOBY   or  TBE  iAi'E  '*^- 

General  Jackson  finding  that   his  arrange- 
menta  were  now  complete,  at   length   yielded 
to  the  earnest  solicitations  of  his   men,  to  be 
led  on  to  the  charge.     The  regular  troops,  led 
by  Col.  Williams  and  Major  Montgomery,  were 
in  a  moment  ia  possession  of  the  nearest  part 
of  the  breast-works;   the  n.ilitia  accompanied 
them  with   equal  firmness   and   intrepidity- 
llaving  maintained  for  a  few  minutes  a  very 
obstinate  contest,  muzzle    to  muzzle,  through 
the  port  holes,  they  succeeded  in  gainmg  the 
opposite  side  of  the  works.     The  event  could 
,    no  longer   be   doubtful;   the  enemy,  although 
many  of  them  fought  with  that  kind  of  brave- 
rv  which  desperation  inspires,  were  cut  in  pie- 
ces    The  whole  margin  of  the  river,  which 
6urv<.undcd  the  peninsula,  was  strewed  with  the 
slain.   Five  hundred  and  fifty-seven  were  found, 
bc-sides  those  thrown  into  the  river  by  their 
friends,  or  drowned   in   attempting  to  escape. 
Among  the  slain  was  their  g^^*^^  P^^"'' !J^ 
nahoe,  and  two  others  of  less  note.    About  300 
women  and  children  were  taken  prisoners.-- 
Jack^on-s  loss  was  26  white  men   killed,  and 
107   wounded;    18   Cherokees    killed   and  36 
wounded;  and  5  friend'y  Creeks  killed  and  1. 
wounded. 


pe 

H 
ai 
cc 
t^ 
st 
is 
u 
a 

P 
a 
t 


BY   or  THE  LAi-E  '*'^' 

kson  finding  that   his  arrange- 
ow  complete,  at   length   yielded 

solicitations  of  his  men,  to  be 
charge.     The  regular  troops,  led 
ms  and  Major  Montgomery,  were 
ia  possession  of  the  nearest  part 
■works;  the  militia  accompanied 
;ual  firmness   and   intrepidity.— 
ttined  for  a  few  minutes  a  very 
est,  muzzle    to  muzzle,  through 
8,  they  sue*  ceded  in  gaining  the 
of  the  works.     The  event  could 

doubtful;   the  enemy,  although 
n  fought  with  that  kind  of  brave- 
pcration  inspires,  were  cut  in  pie- 
hole  margin  of  the  river,  which 
le  peninsula,  was  strewed  with  the 
lundred  and  fifty-seven  were  found, 
3  thrown  into  the  river  by  their 
Irowned   in   attempting  to  escape, 
slain  was  their  great  prophet,  Ma- 
Avo  others  of  less  note.    About  300 
children  were  taken  prisoners.— 
,sii  was  26  while  men   killed,  and 
Dd;    18   Cherokees    killed   and  36 
nd  5  friend'y  Creeks  killed  and  11 


HISTOHY   OF   THE   LATE   WAB.  US 

This  most  decisive  victory  put  an  end  to  the 
Creek  war.  The  spirit  and  power  of  these 
misguided  men  were  completely  broken;  Jack- 
son soon  after  scoured  the  countries  on  the 
Coose  and  Talapoose;  a  party  of  the  enemy 
on  the  latter  river,  on  his  approach,  fled  to 
Pensacola. 

The  greater  part  of  the  Creeks  now  came 
forward  and  threw  themselves  on  the  mercy 
of  the  victors.  A  detachment  from  North  and 
South  Carolina,  under  the  command  of  Colonel 
Pearson,  scoured  the  country  on  the  Alabama, 
and  received  the  submission  of  a  great  many 
Creek  warriors  and  their  prophets. 

In  the  course  of  the  summer,  a  treaty  ot 
peace  was  dictated  to  them  by  Jackson.    They 
agreed  to  yield  a  portion  of  their  territory  as 
an  indemnity  for  the  expenses  of  the  war;  they 
conceded  the  privilege  of  opening  roads  through 
their  country,  and  navigating  their  rivers;  they 
stipulated  to  hold  no  intercourse  with  any  Brit- 
ish or  Spanish  post  or  garrison,  and  to  deliver 
up  the  property  they  had  taken  from  the  whites 
and  friendly  Indians.     The    General,  on  the 
part  of  the  United  States,  undertook  to  guar- 
antee their  remaining  territory;  to  restore  a.l 
their  prisoners,  and  in   consideration  of  their 


•iliiiiiifiii'iiriiiirir"^-"" 


1 


114  HISTORY  OF  THE  LATB  VAK. 

destitute  situation,  to  furnish  them  g«.tuitous- 
ly  with  the  necessaries  of  life  until  they  could 
provide  for  themseWes.  They  also  engaged  to 
establish  trading  houses,  and  endeavor  to  br.ng 
back  the  nation  to  its  former  state. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

Naval  affairs  -War  canieO  on  against  the  Eattem  States 
In  the  course  of  the  year  1813,  an  Ameri- 
can squadron,  consisting  of  the  United  States, 
Commodore  Decatur,  the  Macedonian,  Captam 
Jones,  and  the  sloop  of  war  Hornet,  Captam 
Biddle,  was  blockaued  in  the  harbor  of  New 
York,  by  a  strong  squadron  of  the  ener  y. 
After  making   severui  attempts  to  escape  a>  » 
proceed  on  a  cruize,  they  ran  through  th« 
sound,  but  were  immediately  pursued,  and  so 
closely  as  to   be  compelled  to  seek  refuge  m 
the  harbor  of  New-London.     Here  the  frigates 
were  towed  up  the  river  a=.  far   as   practica- 
ble, and  a  military  force  called  out  to  protect 
them.    The  frigates  were  detained  in  this  place 
during  almost  the  whole  of  the  war. 

On  the  29th  of  April,  IB  14,  Captain  War- 
rington, of  the  United  States  sloop  of  war, 


BY  OF  TH«  UlTB  WAH. 

ion,  to  furnish  them  gratuitous- 
ceasaries  of  life  until  they  could 
imsel  /es.  They  also  engaged  to 
ig  houses,  and  endeavor  to  bring 
n  to  its  former  state. 


CHAPTER  XII. 

rar  canieO  on  against  the  Ea»tem  States. 

■se  of  the  year  1813,  an  Ameri- 
consisting  of  the  United  States, 
)ecatur,  the  Macedonian,  Captain 
.0  sloop  of  war  Hornet,  Captain 
)lockaaed  in  the  harbor  of  New 
itrong  squ^wiron  of  the  enen^ y.- 

severai  attempts  to  escape  a>  ■! 
i  cruize,  they  ran  through  th« 
ere  immediately  pursued,  and  so 

be  compelled  to  seek  refuge  m 
r  New-London.  Here  the  frigates 
up  the  river  ad  far  as  practica- 
li'.itary  force  called  out  to  protect 
frigatfcs  wore  detained  in  this  place 
it  the  whole  of  the  war. 
}th  of  April,  IB  14,  Captain  War- 
the  United  States  sloop  of  war, 


HWTORV   or  THE   tATE  WAB.  US 

Peacock,  fell  ia  with,  and  captured  the  British 
.loop  of  war  Epervier,  rating  and  mouutmg 
eighteen  32  pound  carronad-  wivh  a  crew  of 
|128  men.  In  the  action  the  Epervier  had  11 
tilled  and  16  wounded,  among  the  latter  her 
first  Lieutenant,  severely.  On  board  the  Pea- 
Lk,  not  a  man  was  killed,  and  but  two  were 

wounded.  The  Epervier  was  aimost  cut  to  p|e- 
ees,  while  the  American  vcsse,  m  fifteen  mm 
utes  after,  was  fit  for  action.  On  board  the 
■L  was  found  upwards  of  100,000  dolors 
I  specie,  which  were  taken  out,  after  which 
L  was   sent  to  Savannah,  under  Lieutenant 

Nicholson,  where  she  arrived  safely. 

Anothe    victory,  no  less  brilliant,  followed 

Ut  after.    The  sloop  of  war  Was^  Captain 

Blakely,  engaged,  and   after   an  -t.on  of  19 

ninutes,  captu:-.d  the  Uritish  sloop  Remdeer, 

ninui    ,  J  r.eindeer  was  despe- 

tryCgL  ll^hTexecuti^ 
wt  !ery  gre'at.  Vwo  attempts  were  made  by 
the  enemy  to  board,  with  no  success.  The  prize 
t  so  much  injured,  that  it  was  found  imprac- 
ticable to  bring  her  in:   she  was  accordingly 
seT  on  fire  and  blown  up.    The  Wasp  hod  6 
Sled,  the  other  23  killed  and  4i  wounded. 
The  Wasp,  after  putting  into  L'Orient  to  re- 


116  1I18T0HY   OF  THE   LATE  WAR. 

pair,  and  to  dispose  of  her  prisonors.  again 
JTiled  out  on  tho  27th  of  August.  She  h  d 
not  been  long  out  until  a  second  opportun,  y 
occurred  of  putting  her  prowess  to  the  test. 
Tthe  1st  of  September,  she  fell  in  wUh  the 

Avon,  and  after  a  short  but  warm  engagement, 
this  vessel  was  compelled  to  strike ;  but  when 
possession  was  about  to  bo  taken  of  the  prize, 
Ihe  Castilian,  a  brig  of  18  guns,  was  desened; 
preparation  was  immediately  mode  for  action; 
Lt  on  the  appearance  of  two  other   vessels, 
and  the  Avon  at  the  same  time  making  sig- 
nals of  distress,  the  Wasp  bore  away.    The 
Wasp  afterwards  captured  the  Atalanta,  a  brig 
of  8  guns.      After  these  numerous  exploits, 
.inking  two  ships  of  war,  and  capturing  the 
enemy's  property  to  the  amount  of  at  least 
a  million  of  dollars,  tho  Wasp  was  for  a  long  ] 
time  fondly  expected  home;  but  alas!  her  fate 
is  now  hut  too  certain;  our  gallant  seamen  are 
covered  by  the  mountain  waves  of  the  ocean. 
Tho  daring  commander,  Captain  Porter,  was 
master  of  the  Pacific,  with  his  singularly  ere- 
ated    fleet.     The  enemy's  flag  was  expelled 
from  those  waters,  and  the  British  whale  fish- 
ery entirely   destroyed.     The  admiralty  was 
obliged  to  fit  out  several  vessels,  for  the  ex- 


'  or  THE  LATE  WAR. 

K)se   of  her  prlaonors,  again 
o  27th    of  August.     She   had 
ut  until  a  second  opportunity 
ting  her   prowess  to  the  test, 
leptembcr,  she  fell  in  v/ith  tho 
a  short  hut  warm  engagement, 
compelled  to  strike;  but  when 
about  to  bo  taken  of  the  prize, 
brig  of  18  guns,  was  descried; 
J  immediately  mode  for  action; 
Kiarance  of  two  other   vessels, 
at  the  same  time  making  sig- 
i,  the  Wasp  bore  away.    The 
ds  captured  the  Atalanta,  a  brig 
After  these  numerous  exploits, 
lips  of  war,  and  capturing  the 
,rty  to  the  amount  of  at  least 
jllars,  the  Wasp  was  for  a  long 
pcctedhome;  but  alas!  her  fate 
certauj;  our  gallant  seamen  are 
0  mountain  waves  of  the  ocean, 
commander,  Captain  Porter,  was 
Pacific,  with  his  singularly  cre- 
rhe   enemy's  flag  was  expelled 
aters,  and  the  British  whale  fish- 
destroyed.     Tho  admiralty  was 
out  several  vessels,  for  the  ex- 


mSTORY   OF  THE   LATE   WAR.  117 

press  purpose  of  encountering  this  formidable 
enemy.  Capt.  Porter  having  been  a  long  time  at 
sea,  was    under    tho   necessity  of  selecting  a 
landing  place,  where  he  could  refresh  his  men 
by  some   relaxation   from  their  long  and  ar- 
duous service,  and  whore  he  could  repair  his 
vessels,     lie  landed  at  an  unfrequented  island 
called  Nooahevah,  inhabited  by  numerous  tribeo 
of  the  natives.     They  at  first  erantcd  him  per- 
mission, but   afterwards    became   hostile,   and 
compelled  him  either  to   quit  the  island  or  to 
give  them  a  signal  chastisement.    He  preferred 
the  latter;  and  they  afterwards  treated  him  with 
respect;  it  was  also  a  means  of  bringing  about 
a  general  peace  among  all  the  tribes.      After 
having  completely  refitted,  he  sailed  for  Valpa- 
raiso, in  company  with  the  Essex  Junior. 

Soon  after  his  arrival,  the  British  frigate 
Phoebe,  Captain  Hillynr,  carrying  53  guns,  in 
company  with  the  sloop  of  war  Cherub,  Captain 
Tucker,  mounting  28  guns,  made  their  appear- 
ance. On  entering  the  harbor,  the  Phcebe  fell 
foul  of  the  Essex  in  such  a  manner  as  to  be 
completely  in  her  power.  The  British  com- 
mander aftected  to  be  grateful  for  this  forbear- 
ance on  the  part  of  Capt.  Porter,  and  promised 
to  pay  the  same  regard  to  the  nei-i.ulity  of  the 


118  IIMTORY   OF  TUB   LATB  WAB. 

port; a  promise  which  ho  could  easily  disregard! 
when  it  no  longer  suited  him  to  observe.  Repeat 
ed  attempts  were  made  by  the  American  com  I 
mandor  to  provoke  the  British  frigate  to  a  sin-l 
glc  combat,  without  success.     At  length,  finding! 
that  they  could  out-sail  the  British  vessel,  ho  dc  I 
termined  to  seize  a  favorable  opportunity  ofl 
running   out  to  sea.     On  the  28th  of  March, 
he  made  the  experiment,  but  on  rounding  the! 
point,  a  squall  carried  away  his  main  top  mast, 
in  consequence  of  which,  finding  it  impoMiblel 
to  escape,  he  attempted  to  regain  the  port ;  failingi 
in  this,  he  put  into  a  small  bay,  under  the  gunsi 
of  a  Spanish  battery,  and  let  go  his  anchor.  Re- 
gardless of  the  neutrality  of  the  place,  the  ene-l 
my  bore  down,  and  the  two  vessels  choosing 
each  a  raking  position,  opened  a  tremendous  fire 
upon  the  unfortunate  American  frigate.  Capta.nl 
Porter  long  defended  himself  with  unexampled 
courage.      With  three  long  12  launders,  run 
out  of  his  stern  ports,  he  twice  compelled  the  I 
enemv  to  haul  off  and  repair.    They  afterwards 
chose  a  more  secure  distance.    Captain  Porter  I 
cut  his  cable  and  attempted  to  board;  failing  in 
this,  he  tried   to  run  his   vessel  ashore;  afterl 
trying  every  expedient  which  the  most  consum-l 
mate  nautical  skill  could  suggest,  and  supported 


iHY   OF   THE   LATB  WAB. 

!  which  ho  could  easily  disregani 
5er  suited  him  to  observe.  Repeat 
3re  nmdo  by  the  American  com 
voko  the  British  frigate  to  a  sin-] 
Ihout  success.  At  length,  finding 
1  out-sail  the  British  vessel,  he  dc 
icizo  a  favorable  opportunity  of 
lo  sea.  On  the  28th  of  March, 
3xperimont,  but  on  rounding  the 

carried  away  his  main  top  mast, 
«  of  which,  finding  it  impcMible 
ittcmplcd  to  regain  the  port ;  failing 
;  into  a  small  bay,  under  the  guns 
)attory,  and  let  go  his  anchor.  Re- 
le  neutrality  of  the  place,  the  ene- 
in,  and  the  two  vessels  choosing 

position,  opened  a  tremendous  fire 
trtunate  American  frigate.  Captain 
efended  himself  with  unexampled 
/ith  three  long  12  pounders,  run 
irn  ports,  he  twice  compelled  the 
il  off  and  repair.  They  afterwards 
3  secure  distance.    Captain  Porter 

and  attempted  to  board;  failing  in 
i   to  run  his   vessel  ashore;  after 

expedient  which  the  most  consum- 
I  skill  could  suggest,  and  supported 


nisTORV  OF  THB  1.AT*  WA«. 


110 


1 


by  an  unshaken  firmness  without  a  parallel,  ho 
was  at  last  compelled  to  surrender  his  ship. 
Out  of  a  crow  of  two  hundred  and  twenty-five, 
5B  were  killed,  65  wounded,  and  31  drowned. 
Thus,  after  a  contest  of  two  hours,  a  victory 
was  won  by  the  arms  of  the  British,  which 
covered  them  with  disgrace. 

Captain  Porter  was  allowed  to  return  in  the 
Essex  Junior,  but  was  shamefully  treated  by 
the  Saturn  razee  off  Sandy-Hook.  He  was 
obliged  to  give  up  his  parole,  and  afterwards 
effected  his  escape  in  an  open  boat,  at  the  dis- 
tance of  thirty  miles  from  land. 

In  order  to  bring  to  a  close  the  naval  incidents 
of  this  war,  it  will  be  proper  to  notice  several 
important  affairs,  which  in  order  of  time,  may 
appear  somewhat  out  of  place;  this  will,  how- 
ever, be  counterbalanced  by  the  advantage  of  a 
more    connected    narrative   of  the   remaining 
events  of  the  war.     In  Jan.  1815,  a  squadron 
in  the  harbor  of  New  York,  consisting  of  seve- 
ral frigates  and  ships  of  war,  under  the  com- 
mand of  Commodore  Decatur,  was  destined  by 
the    War    Department    to   make  a   cruise   in 
the  Indian  Ocean.    The  harbor  being  closely 
blockaded,  the  squadron  agreed  upon  a  place  of 
rendezvous,  and  attempted   to  sail  out  suigly, 


i 


■hI 


120 


HI8T0BT  OF  THE  tATE  WAB. 


and  endeavor  to  elude  the  enemy.    Taking  ad- 
vantage  of  a  dark  night,  the  Commodore  s  ship 
(the  President)   stood   out,  but   unfortunately 
struck  on  passing  the  bar,  and  was  detamed  for 
two  hours,  by  which  means  the  return  of  day 
brought  her  in  sight  of  the  British  squadron; 
and  the  Endymion  was  in  a  short  time  so  near 
as  to  come  to  action.     Decatur  at  first  resolved 
to  board  this  vessel,  and  if  successful  to  aUn- 
don  his  own  ship,  which  had  entirely  lost  her 
sailing  trim  by  the   unfortunate  accident  first 
mentioned.    He  was  disappointed  in  this  by  the 
manoeuvres  of  the  enemy;  he  therefore  opened 
his  guns  upon  her,  and  it  was  not  long  before 
she  lay  a  complete  log  in  the  water.    By  this 
time  the  other  ships  had  come  up,  and  the  Pres- 
ident was  compelled  to  surrender.    The  Presi- 
dent lost  25  killed  and  60  wounded.     Nothmg 
in  point  of  naval  renown  was  lost  by  America 

m  this  affair. 

The  Hornet,  Captain  Biddle,near  the  island 
of  Tristan  d'Acunha,  fell  in  with,  and  after  an 
action  of  22  minutes,  on  the  23d  of  March, 
1816,  captured  his  Britanic  Majesty's  brig  Pen- 
guin, Capt.  Dickenson.  The  captured  vessel 
had  14  killed  and  28  wounded.  Captain  Biddle 
was  wounded  in  the  neck,  after  the  Penguin  had 


L- 


r  THE  lATE  WAK. 

de  the  enemy.    Taking  ad- 
ight,  the  Commodore's  ship 
od   out,  but    unfortunately 
le  bar,  and  was  detained  for 
:h  means  the  return  of  day 
ht  of  the  British  squadron; 
was  in  a  short  time  so  near 
Decatur  at  first  resolved 
1,  and  if  successful  to  aban- 
which  had  entirely  lost  her 
3   unfortunate  accident  first 
IS  disappointed  in  this  by  the 
enemy;  he  therefore  opened 
,  and  it  was  not  long  before 
e  log  in  the  water.    By  this 
IS  had  come  up,  and  the  Pres- 
Hl  to  surrender.    The  Presi- 
and  60  wounded.     Nothing 
renown  was  lost  by  America 

iptain  Biddle,near  the  island 
iha,  foil  in  with,  and  after  an 
utes,  on  the  23d  of  March, 
s  Britanic  Majesty's  brig  Pen- 
mson.  The  captured  vessel 
28  wounded.  Captain  Biddle 
lie  neck,  after  the  Penguin  had 


HISTORY  OF  TUB  lATE  WAH. 


121 


surrendered,  an  act  which  so  irritated  the  crew, 
that  it  was  with  great  difficulty  it  could  be  re- 
strained from  refusing  quarters  to  the  enemy. 
Lieutenant  Conner,  a  brave  officer,  was  se- 
verely wounded. 

The  frigate  Constitution  returned  to  the  Uni- 
ted States,  after  p.  long  cruise,  after  the  cessa- 
tion of  hostilities.    On  the  20th  of  February, 
1815,  Capt.  Stewart  was  attacked  by  two  heavy 
sl(K)ps  of  war.    Notwithstanding  the  advantage 
which   they   possessed   of  being  able  to  take 
raking  positions,  unless  baffled  by  the  utmost 
exertion  of  skill,  both  were  captured,  and  prov- 
ed to  be  the  ship  Cyane,  Captain  Gordon  Falcon, 
of  thirty-four  32   pound  carronadcs,  and  the 
brig   Levant,  Captain  Douglass,  of  32  pound 
carronades,  and  two  long  twelves.  On  board  the 
enemy,  the  loss  was  100  in  killed  and  wounded. 
The   Constitution  had   4  men  killed   and    11 
wounded.    Capt.  Stewart  carried  his  prizes  mto 
Port  Praya,  in  March;  here  the  British  ships 
Leander  and  the  Newcastle  api^earing,  and  the 
Captain  apprehending  that  no  regard  would  be 
paid  to  the  neutrality  of  the  place,  endeavored 
to  make  his  escape  with  his  prizes      After  a 
long  chase  he  succeeded  in  getting  off  the  Cyane, 
but  the  Levant  was  compiled  to  return  to  port, 


mi!IHi-).i-|iL'!W*)-'t"'' 


■-r^fifl 


}«  „CtO.T  OF  OT«  "T.  «"• 

,he,=  ske  »w  cplured  in  violation  of  the  l.w. 
„.,  ,„  ™ko  .hen,  M -"« -^  „^  i„,.„^„ 

h^Uly  collecea.     A  heavy  'jj^  '^X°^,'^ 
kept  »p  for  «  ho.,r.,  'f  '^"^^^^.tTi 
tVi«t  attempted  to  land,  were  several 
!^Ld  toTelire.      Great  praise  was  bestowed  in 
Tve^y  Art  "the  Un  Jstates,  on  these  bravel 
citizens  in  defence  of  their  town. 

a  the  course  of  the  summer,, several  tmpor 
tant  expeditions  were  undertaken  by  the  enemy 

iainst'the  extreme  north  eastern  frontier  ^ 
Z  United  States,  whore  the  American  forcel 
could  make  but  a  feeble  resistance. 


_ i 

"^  I     Eastp 


War 


r  THB  tXt*  WAB. 


HISTOBT  OF  THB  lATB  WAB. 


123 


ured  in  Violation  of  the  laws 

includes  the  naval  history 
,ow  turn  back  our  steps  in  OT- 
egular  plan  of  our  narrative, 
^car  of  the  war,  the  leniency 
towards  the  Eastern  states, 
icts  of  hostility,  although  not 
aracter,  yet  sufficiently  ngor, 

feel  the  war. 

was  afforded  the  inhabitants 
common  ene.ny,  that  disaffec 

was  the  last  thing  thought  of 

whatever  sentiments  might  be 

uncdbyafew.     Commodore 

nily  resisted  at  Stonington,  a 

which  a  few  militia  had  been 

A  heavy  bombardment  was 
hours,  and  the  British  barges 
0  land,  were  several  times  corn- 
Great  praise  was  bestowed  in 
le  United  States,  on  these  brave 
ce  of  their  town. 

of  the  summer,, several  impor 
;  were  undertaken  by  the  enemy' 
treme  north  eastern  frontier  of 
ites,  whoie  the  American  force 

a  feeble  resistance. 


Eastport,  Castine,  Machias,  and  other  villages 
bet^rthe  rcnobscot  and  the  Bay  of  Passama- 
rury%ere  successively  visited  without  any 

Lta'nce  of  consequence.  The  British  com- 
mander affected  to  take  possession  of  all  the 
Lntry  cast  of  Penobscot,  and  fortifying  East- 
Zi,  established  a  garrison  of  1200  men.  The 
Txa^t  boundary  of  this  quarter  had  never  been 

piLtly   ascertained;  it  had  been  doubtful  to 

Thorn  several  of  the  islands  properly  belonged; 

Tlds  at  the  conclusion  of  the  war,  gave  rise  to 

an  article  of  the  treaty  ^^^ 

In  consequence  of  the  taKing  oi  , 

frigate    John  Adams,  was  unfortunately    lost 
C  ptain  Morris  had  put   into  the  Peno^ot^  a 
few  days  before.      Having  no  means  of  defend 
Z  Ws  ship  against  a  powerful  force,  he  was 
?m^lledt   sefheronfire,andblowherup. 


CHAPTER  Xlll. 

Arm.  .h»  Mure  of  the  to.  "»■»'' "''^ 

ir,  the  inhabitants  along  ttie  I'iiaga' 

:j  whieh  e,»bW  ,he  B,m*  .o  «ke  po»e».o» 


msTORV  or  the  late  wab. 

of  the  American  fort,  the  forces  on  both  sides 
retired  into  winter  quarters.    Nothing  of  im- 
portance took  place  until  the  opemng  of  the 
Lpaign,  towards   the   latter  end  of  Maxch 
General  Wilkinson,  finding  that  a  large  body  of 
the  enemy  had  been  collected  at  La  Cole,  march- 
ed a  considerable  portion  of  his  army,  for  the 
purpose  of  attacking  his  position.    They  had 
fortified  a  stone  mill  and  erected  other  defences^ 
\n    eighteen    pounder    was  attempted   to    be 
brought  up  by  the  General,  but  not  succeeding 
in  tlUs,  a  twelve  pounder  was  substituted.   After 
a  fair  experiment  of  the  strength  of  the  fortress 
and  repulsing  a  sortie  by  the  enemy,  m  which 
Captains  Larabie  and  M'Pherson  were  wound- 
od,  a  retreat  took  place.    The  General    hen 
took  position  at  Odletown,  on  the  dividmg  line. 
The    inauspicious    opening  of   the  campaign, 
together  with  the  failure  of  the  last,  caused  this 
officer,  together  with  Hampton,  to  be  withdrawn 
from  the  army,  and  General  Izavd  assumed  the 
command  in  the  place  of  the  one,  and  General 
M'Comb  of  the  other. 
-        Early   in  the   spring,  General  Brown,  who 
had  been  detached  from  the  main  body  with 
about  2000  men,  arrived  at  Niagara.    The  gal- 
lant conduct  of  this  officer,  on  several  occasions. 


THE   LATE  WAB. 

the  forces  on  both  sides 
luarters.    Nothing  of  im- 
until  the  opening  of  the 
he   latter  end  of  March, 
nding  that  a  large  body  of 
!ollected  at  La  Cole,  march- 
lion  of  his  army,  for  the 
;  his  position.    They  had 
and  erected  other  defences. 
,er    was  attempted   to    be 
3eneral,  but  not  succeeding 
nder  was  substituted.   After 
the  strength  of  the  fortress, 
tic  by  the  enemy,  in  which 
nd  M'Pherson  were  wound- 
place.    The  General  then 
etown,  on  the  dividing  line, 
opening  of  the  campaign, 
ilure  of  the  last,  caused  this 
h  Hampton,  to  be  withdrawn 
1  General  Izard  assumed  the 
ace  of  the  one,  and  General 

jr. 

jring,  General  Brown,  who 
I  from  the  main  body  with 
rrived  at  Niagara.  The  gal- 
i  officer,  on  several  occasions. 


HI3T0BV   OF  THE   LATE  WAK. 


125 


fidently  expected  that  ne  wuui 

There   doe.  .>o.  "PF"  '»  '"=  "^      j   ', 
„t  being  oble  to  tear  any  pan  ol 

was  to  cut  off  »l'^*'"""'  mu^j  British  had 

.„l  large  "»"="/'''  '^'°^asu..e,  h»l  «.< 
Oa»no.    AUbongl.  *«"°*\t  naval  force, 

.bey  f»»^  *'"lr,:co*«"h. he  enemy. 

with  the  land  forces.  ^„j^  ■ , 

S.,erd  smaller  aff.^»,ho»=v-;^ 

e„li,enthe«ne.     O^U»  „„,^„ 

Jame.  Lucas  Yeo,  «'»  ^d  before 

.easel,  of  -"^j^^  /to"«X  '^  "».''' 
Oswego,  with  a  view  oi  i  g^^rior, 

and  necessary  ^^^^^f^^^J^   The  place 
then  building  at  Sadcet's  Harbor. 


126  nisTOHTT  or  the  latb  war. 

^08  commanded  by  Lieutenant  Colonel  Mitch- 
ell, with  about  300  men,  assisted  b     Captam 
S>W  with  a  party  of  sailors,  and  the  G^w^ 
ler's  crew  under  Lieutenant  Pierce.  They  were 
olTmly  received  by  the  Yank-  ;;^^;>- 
boats  were  compelled  to  fall  back  with  all  pos- 
sible precipitation.    Not  content  witn  this,  they 
apprlhe!  the  next  day  with  3000  me„,^d 
covered  their  landing  with  their  ships.    These 
vrere  handsomely  peppered  as  they  drew  near 
and  after  taking  possession  of  the  place,  with 
the  loss  of  200  men,  they  found  to  their  inex- 
pressible mortification,  that  the  stores  had  al- 
ready been  removed,  except  one  barrel  of  whis- 
key,  which  they  indignantly  stove,  and  suffered 
to  be  swallowed  by  the  thirsty  earth. 

Sometime  after  this.  Captain  Woolsey  having 
brought  to  at  the  mouth  of  Oswego  creek,  with 
the  military  stores  for  Sacket's  Harbor,  received 
intelligence  from  his  look-out  boats,  that  a  flo- 
tilla of  British  gun  vessels  had  chased  them. 
In  concert  with  Col.  Appling,  a  plan  of  decoy- 
ing the  enemy,  who  it  appeared,  was  command- 
ed by  Captain  Popham,  was  formed.    The  look- 
out  boat  shewing  itself  was  closely  pursued  into 
the  creek.    Colonel  Appling's  riflemen  having 
been  coi  cealed  in  the  edge  of  the  bank,  suddenly 


■  THB   LATB  WAB. 


Lieutenant  Colonel  Mitch- 
men,  assisted  l^  Captain 
of  sailors,  and  the  Grow- 
utcnant  Pierce.  They  were 
by  the  Yankees,  that,  their 
,d  to  fall  back  with  all  poa- 
Not  content  with  this,  they 
St  day  with  3000  men,  and 
ng  with  their  ships.    These 
cppered  as  they  drew  near, 
)ssession  of  the  place,  with 
len,  they  found  to  their  inex- 
ion,  that  the  stores  had  al- 
d,  except  one  barrel  of  whis- 
dignantly  stove,  and  suffered 
J  the  thirsty  earth, 
his.  Captain  Woolsey  having 
south  of  Oswego  creek,  with 
for  Sacket's  Harbor,  received 
lis  look-out  boats,  that  a  flo- 
in  vessels  had  chased  them, 
ol.  Appling,  a  plan  of  decoy- 
10  it  appeared,  was  command- 
)ham,  was  formed.    The  look- 
itsclf  was  closely  pursued  into 
lel  Appling's  riflemen  having 
the  edge  of  the  bank,  suddenly 


HurroB.  OF  -n..  i^«  ^'^'         ^'^ 


^Uen  P"«««';     ^^^  3d  of  July,  that  Geneml 
It  was  not  until  tn  ^^  ^^^^^  ^^^ 

Brown  found  hunse^f  mas  ^^  ^^^^ 

plan  into  execution.    On  t  ^f 

Ly,  orders  were  issued  for  the  em  ^ 

the  army,  which  consisted  of  ^J      J^  ,„i,„. 
sides  the  New  York  -^  J-^^       -re  suf- 
teers  under  ^^^.^Z^  ^-d  without  mo- 
fered  to  cross  ^^«  ".''"     „„der  General  Scott, 
lestation;  t^e  ^-t  brigade  und<^^         ^^.^^^^^^ 

t,e  artillery,  -^^^^hUc  General  Ripley, 
landed  below  fort  fl^'^^^istance  above  the 
V.h  the  second,  laned«J-^^^^  ^^^  ^.^^ 
fort.  The  garrison  ^^  "^  ^^^^d  with  but 
almost  taken  by  -n>r-,  J-;;^.^,  ^,  ..-.ty- 
very  little  resistance.    One  tiu 

seven  P"-""^  J  "tot  "in  the  fort.  General 

Placing  tt  small  B"^"^"         ,      ,„  Chippewa 

Brown  moved  ^^^^^^^'Jl'^e,  General  Por- 

plains.   In  approachmg  ^jf  ^^^^^  ,f  the  en- 
Lsadvancemetsomelgh^bodi     ^^^^^^^^^^ 

-y'^"\^"^°t:tlnr-    P-sued,u^ 

beating    them,  the  vol  •„  .intact 

they  found  themselves  on  as 


m 


nuTORY  or  xnB  late  wah. 


» ith  the  nwiin  body  of  the  British  army.     They 
,v,re  about  to  give  way,  when  Gen.  Brown  or- 
isted  Scott's  brigade  to  advance  with  Towson  s 
artillery,  and  drew  the  enemy  into  the  plain^ 
The  engagement  becan.    general.      Ihe  leu 
.tank  of  Scott's  brigade  was  exposed  m  conse- 
.lut^nce  of  the  volunteers  having  fallen  back; 
but  Major  Jessup,  who  commanded  here,  ordered 
his  battalion  to  carry  arms  and  advance,  until 
choosing  a  favorable  position,  he  poured  a  dead- 
ly fire  upon  the  enemy,  which  compelled  them 
to  retreat.     General  Ripley   was  ordered   to 
move  up  with  his  brigade,  and  turn  the  right 
wing;  before  this  could  be  executed,  the  British 
had  given  ground,  and  on  approaching  the  de- 
clivity of  the  hill  broke  and  fled  in  disorder  be- 
hind their  works.     This  action  was  close  and 
severe;  it  was  fought  with  great  courage  and 
skill  on  both  sides.     The  Americans  had  60 
killed  and  248  wounded:  on  the  side  of  the  Bri- 
tish, their  killed  amounted  to   133,  and  320 

wounded.  n  •  ■  x.  • 

After  this  well  fought  action,  the  British  in- 

vincibles  retired  to  fort  George,  abandoning  all 

their  intermediate  posts;  but  not  without  being 

closely  pressed  in  their  retreat. 

Gen.  Brown  returned  to  Queenstown  heights. 


where  1 

ments 

and  Pr 

and  en 

detach  I 

Schlosi 

to  thr 

order 

Towsc 

Queen 

On 

Britisl 

occup; 

selecti 

ed  a 

and  t 

to  the 

and  1 

engai 

mand 

the  I 

gove 

this 

rank 

ishir 

pose 

groi 


)r  THB   LATE  WAH. 

of  the  British  army.     They 
,  way,  when  Gen.  Brown  or- 
le  to  advance  with  Towson's 
V  the  enemy  into  the  plain, 
becaiii'    general.     The  left 
igado  was  exposed  in  conse- 
unteers  having  fallen  back; 
irho  commanded  here,  ordered 
irry  arms  and  advance,  until 
)le  position,  he  poured  a  dead- 
lemy,  which  compelled  them 
jral  Ripley  was  ordered  to 
1  brigade,  and  turn  the  right 
could  be  executed,  the  British 
,  and  on  approaching  the  de- 
broke  and  fled  in  disorder  be- 
This  action  was  close  and 
ught  with  great  courage  and 
les.     The  Americans  had  60 
(unded:  on  the  side  of  the  Bri- 

amounted  to   133,  and  320 

I  fought  action,  the  British  in- 
to fort  George,  abandoning  all 
e  posts;  but  not  without  being 
ti  their  retreat. 
;turned  to  Queenstown  heights. 


HlfeTOBV    OF  THB  LATE  WAR. 


120 


Where  he  soon  after  found  that  large  rcmforco- 
n^nts  had  reached  the  enemy  from  hmgston 
Iprescott.  Onthi8here«3dedtoCh.ppcwa 
and  encamH-  On  the  26th  of  July,  a  strong 
detachment  was  discovered  on  its  m.jrch  towa^ 
Schlosser,  on  the  opposite  s.de,  whv^h  seemed 
to  threaten  the  American  deposU  the  -  in 
order  to  counteract  this,  Scott's  br.gade  and 
Towson's  artillery,  marched  in  the  du-ecUon  of 

^  On;"oaching  the  Falls  of  Niagara   the 
BrSh  army  was  discovered  directly  m  front 
Spying  a  position  which  had  been  curetuUy 
Xtld.'cc'l^ral  Scott  immed.ately    espa   h 
ed  a  messenger   to  the  commander     n  ch^f, 
and  the  General  hastened  -'^hout  loss  of  Ume 
to  the  field  with  his  main  force.     General  Sco  t, 
: ':ife  artillery  under  Towson,  we.  ^^^ 

A     ThP   26th  under  the   gallant   com 


180  BWTOKY   OF  TIIK   LATB  WAB. 

of  being  reinforced  by  General  Brown.    Mean- 
whC  Colonel   Je.sup.  taking    advantage   of 
1    Le^y,    in    leaving   his    JefV   ung^ard 
aained  his  rear,  and  as  the  clouds  of  night  were 
fast  descending,  he  penetrated  the  Brmsh  hne 
«,d  cut  off  its  left  wing,  makmg  prisoners  o 
Gen.  Rial  and  suit,  while  Gen  Drummond  nar- 
rowly  escaped.  .  ,   . 

Ripley's    brigade  at  length   arrived,  and  m 
ord^fto'relieve  the  troops  of  Gen.  SC.U,  now 

almost  exhausted,  displayed  in  front.     1  he  ene_ 
mv  occupied  a  conntianding  height,  on  whicn 
was  planted  his  artillery,  a  formidable  battery. 
Ripley  conceived  the  bold  design  of  making  an 
attempt  to  carry  the  height. 

The  troops  advanced  in  column  to  the  perilous 
contest,  but  faltered  on  receiving  the  first  fire; 
they  were  again  formed,  and  advancing  with  a 
steady  and  firm  step,  seized  the  whole  battery. 
The  enemy  fled  in  astonishment  and  dismay; 
but  stung  with  shame,  and  receiving  reinforce- 
ments, came  on  with  a  furious  charge,  but  were 
driven  back  with  great  loss;  a  second  and  third 
time,  having  each  time  received  reinforcements. 
The  Americans  were  left  in  quiet  possession  of 
the    field:  it   was  now  midnight,  and    having 
been   so  long  engaged  in  this  sanguinary  en- 


gage mi 
unforti 


or  THE  tATB  WAB. 

sd  by  General  Brown.    Mean- 

lessup,  taking    advantage   of 

leaving   his    left   unguarded, 

,nd  as  the  clouds  of  night  were 

te  penetrated  the  British  line 
eft  wing,  making  prisoners  ol 
lit,  while  Gen  Drummond  nar- 1 


niSTOHV  or  the  tAT«  WAS. 


181 


ade  at  length  arrived,  and  in 
the  troops  of  Gen.  Scott,  now 
1,  displayed  in  front.  The  ene- 
conimanding  height,  on  which 
artillery,  a  formidable  battery, 
d  the  bold  design  of  making  an 
the  height. 

Ivanced  in  column  to  the  perilous 
ored  on  receiving  the  first  fire; 
n  formed,  and  advancing  with  a 
1  step,  seized  the  whole  battery, 
d  in  astonishment  and  dismay; 
shame,  and  receiving  reinforce- 
with  a  furious  charge,  but  were 
ith  great  loss;  a  second  and  third 
ich  time  received  reinforcements. 
I  were  left  in  quiet  possession  of 
ft-as  now  midnight,  and    having 
engaged  in  this  sanguinary  en- 


gagement, they  were  ordered  to  retreat;  but 
unfortunately,  the  trophies  of  th.s  splendid  v.c. 
tory  could  not  be  secured,  from  the  want  of  the 
Jans  to  convey  the  artillery,  the  carna^ 
having  been  shattered,  and  the  Worses  ^dled. 
The  total  loss  of  the  Brit.sh  amoun  ed  to  860. 
,he  loss  of  the  Americans  very  httle  shorto 
the  same  number.     Generals  Brown  and  Sccrtt 

were  both  severely  -— '  ^^^'^rTn^ 
the  volunteers,  gained  great  honors  for  hin»elf 
and  his  brave  volunteers.    Colonel  ^venwo^h 
Major  Jcssup,  and  a  number  of  other  officer. 
weTe  highly  c-on.plimented  in  the  orders  of  the 
Ty     This'was  Lyond  all  question  the  m<-t 
desperately   fought  action  on  land,  during  the 
wT   It  was  a  fair  trial  of  military  skill  and 
r;age;and  although  no  great  adva^Ug^^^^^^ 

eitheT  trained  or  lost,  the  moral  effect  wouw 
llvbSn  felt  if  the  war  had  been  or— 

longer  continuance.  The  two  ««;!«« J'^^ 
nTarly  matched,  and  the  loss  in  k.ll^  and 
wounded  on  either  side,  amounted  to  a  fifth  of 
r  whole  number  engaged,  a  mortality  almost 
unparalleled  in  modern  warfare^ 

On  the  15th  of  August,  after  the  ton  naa 
been  for  some  time  invested  by  General  Drum- 
^nd,withalarge  force,  and  after  having  made 


tss 


HMTOHV   or  TUI   LATB  WAE. 


his  regular  approaches,  he  resolved  to  attempt 
to  carry  it  by  Htorin.  Tht  assault  and  defence 
were  of  tho  sanw  desperate  character  as  the 
pitched  battles  before  described,  and  terminated 
alike  to  tho  glory  of  tho  American  officers  and 
soldiers.  By  this  time  the  bravery  of  Amer- 
ican troops  had  made  no  light  impression  on 
these  haughty  1-<3S. 

Gen.    Brown    having     recovered    from    his 
wound,  on  the  2nd  of  Sept.  resumed  the  com- 
mand.     From    tho   time   of  the    unsuccessful 
assault,  both  sides  w<re  actively  engaged,  the 
enemy  in  erecting  V«ttories  and  other  works, 
the    Americans  in   completing    their  defences. 
The   enemy's  batteries  were    becoming  every 
day  more  formidable  to  the  fort,  two  of  which 
were  '.vithin  600  yards,  and  a  third  was  rapidly 
constructing  for  the  purpose  of  infilading  the 
American    works.      A    spirited    meaauro    was 
thought  of  by  Gen.  Brown  to  avert  the  impend- 
ing danger.     On  tho  17th,  a  sortie  was  executed 
in  a  gallant  style,  which  could  only  be  equalled 
by  the  admirable  skill  displayed  in  the  forma- 
tion of  the  plan.     The  British  were  completely 
surprised;  ii.c  American  troops  taking  a  circuit- 
ous route    through  Ihu    woods,  canw  suddenly 
upon  the  enemy's   flank,  and  charging  in  co- 


OF  THE   LATE  WAH. 

iches,  he  renolved  to  attempt 
■in.  Tht,  assault  and  defence 
I  desperate  character  as  the 
"ore  described,  and  terminated 
of  the  American  officers  and 

time  the  bravery  of  Amer- 
fiado  no  light  impression  on 
f). 

laving  recovered  from  his 
d  of  Sept.  resumed  the  com- 
10  time  of  the  unsuccessful 
a  wre  actively  engaged,  the 
g  V«Uories  and  other  works, 
1  completing  their  defences, 
tteries  were  becoming  every 
ible  to  the  fort,  two  of  which 
l^ards,  and  a  third  was  rapidly 
the  purpose  of  infilading  the 
A  spirited  meaauro  was 
in.  Brown  to  avert  the  impend- 
tho  17th,  a  sortie  was  executed 
,  which  could  only  be  equalled 
;  skill  displayed  in  the  forma- 

The  British  were  completely 
nericiin  troops  taking  a  circuit- 
jh  Ihu  woods,  came  suddenly 
's   flank,  and  charging  in  co- 


BUrrOKY  OF  TIIK   lATE   WAR.  1» 

lumn,  took  possession  of  all  the  oneu,y's  l«tto 
ries,  though  not  without  a  severe  conthct  and 
great  carnage.    The    batteries    in  two    hours 
were  destroyed.     The  Americans  had  to  lament 
the  loss  of  some  brave  officers;  among  whom 
were   Brigadier  General  Davis,  of  the  volun- 
teers, and  Cols.  Gibson  and  Wood    two  valua- 
ble officers.     The  Wcllingtoman  "  Invmc.bles 
after    this,  thought  proper   to  -^-e,  and  jc- 
cordingly  Generals  Drummond  and  Waterv.  le, 
broke  up  their  campon  the  n.ght  of  the  21st, 
a^tsought  safety  in  the  works  of  Ch.ppew«. 

About  tL  time  General  Izard  urnvedf-™ 
Plattsburg,  with  a  reinforcement  of  1400  men, 
and  pla Id  the  security  of  the  post  beyond 
doubt  Considering  that  nothing  could  bo  gam- 
ed by  maintaining  their  present  pos.Uon,  th.8 
General,  who  now  assumed  command,  as  the 
sTnbr  officer,  removed  to  the  American  side, 
senior    u»a-^  ^    ♦    Prin     nnd  ordered  his 

after   destroying   fort   Eric,    ««"«'," 
troops    into  winter  quarters  at  Buffalo-     ^^^ 

ITs  of  Brown,  S^tt,  Kip'ey>  «-^X- 
Porter,  Davis,  Jessup,  Roe,  Gibson,  Wood,  Mo^ 
gan,  Hindman,  Aspinwall,  I---^-^^;  J;:^ 
L  and  Trimble,  will  be  wntten  m  letters  o. 
gold,  on  the  arch  of  American  glory. 
M 


m  HISTORY  OF  THE  lATE  WAR. 

CHAPTER  XIV. 

Capture  of  Washington— Defence  of  Baltimore. 

In   the   beginning  of  Summer,  the  enemy 
arrived  off  our  coast  with  several  ships  of  the 
line  and  frigates,  with  a  great  number  of  trans- 
ports.    They    soon  after   entered  the  Chesa- 
peake, and  maintained   a   threatening  attitude 
against  the  principal  cities  on  the  Bay.    Consid- 
erable time  however  elapsed,  before  any  impor- 
tant  enterprise  was  undertaken;  but   Admiral 
CockLurn   was   actively  engaged  as  usual,  in 
plundering  and  pilfering  the  planters.    To  op- 
pose some  check  to  this  attrocious  freebooter,  a 
flotilla  of  gun  vessels  was  fitted  out  by  our  gov- 
ernment, and  the  command  given  to  Commo- 
dore   Barney.     Thi?    intrepid    veteran,    soon 
made   himself  so   formidable,  from  his  rapid 
movements  through  creeks  and  inlets,  that  the 
enemy  found  it  necessary  to  destroy  his  flotilla. 
A  number  of  vessels  suited  to  the  pupose,  was 
accordingly  provided.    The  Commodore,  about 
the  first  of  June,  was  chased  into  the  Patux«nt; 
here  their  larger  vessels  not  being  able  to  pur- 
sue him,  they  sent  their  barges,  but  which  w  re 
comiicllod  to  sneak  off  faster  than  they  came. 


A  mor< 

days  al 

toVe  re 

cxosely 

Barney 

fell  do^ 

ing  his 

the  Bri 

finding 

l)ruden 

Patuxe 

run  01 

tuxent 

Adn 

ascend 

transp 

About 

attack 

stance 

in  the 

the   c 

dividi 

up  th 

SirP« 

Captt 

he  to 

Tl 


>F  THE  LA.TB  WAH. 


PTER    XIV. 


I  A  mot 


HJSTOHY  OF  THE  lATE  WAR. 


185 


ngton— Defence  of  Baltimore. 

ig  of  Summer,  the  enemy 
ist  with  several  ships  of  the 
fith  a  great  number  of  trans- 
1  after  entered  the  Chesa- 
incd  a  threatening  attitude 
al  cities  on  the  Bay.  Consid- 
er elapsed,  before  any  impor- 
as  undertaken;  but  Admiral 
;tively  engaged  as  usual,  in 
fering  the  planters.  To  op- 
o  this  attrocious  freebooter,  a 
els  was  fitted  out  by  our  gov- 
command  given  to  Commo- 
'hip    intrepid    veteran,    soon 

formidable,  from  his  rapid 
rh  creeks  and  inlets,  that  the 
cessary  to  destroy  his  flotilla- 
els  suited  to  the  pupose,  was 
led.  The  Commodore,  about 
was  chased  into  the  Patux«nt; 

vessels  not  being  able  to  pur- 
,  their  barges,  but  which  m  re 
k  off  faster  than  they  came. 


more  formidable  squadron  of  boats,  a  few 
days  afterwards,  compelled  the  Commodore  to 
toVe  refuge  in  Leonard's  creek,  where  he  was 
cxosely  blockaded  by  two  frigates.    Commodore 
Barney  having  received  some  additional  force, 
fell  down  to  the  mouth  of  the  creek,  and  choos- 
ing his  position,  began  a  well  directed  fire  on 
tiie  British  vessels.    In  two  hours  the  frigates 
finding    their  situation    rather   uncomfortable, 
l)rudently  weighed  anchor  and  stood  down  the 
Patuxent.     Barney  embraced  this  opportunity, 
run  out  of  the  creek,   and  ascended   the  Pa- 
tuxent. 

Admiral  Cockburn,  about  the  16th  of  August, 
ascended  thfc  bay  with  twenty-two  sail,  besides 
transports,  and  was  joined  by  Admiral  Malcom. 
About  this  time,  it  appears  the  determination  to 
attack  Washington  was  formed.     The  circum- 
stance of  Barney's  flotilla  having  taken  shelter 
in  the  Patuxent,  favored  the  design  of  attacking 
the  city  by  way  of  Benedict.     Accordingly, 
dividing  his  force,  and  sending  one  detachment 
up  the  bay,  as  if  to  threaten  Baltimore,  under 
Sir  Peter  Parker,  and  one  up  the  Potomac,  under 
Captain  Gorden,  as  If  to  force  fort  Washington, 
he  look  the  road  first  named. 

The  British  land  forces  debarked  at  Benedict 


180  HWrOBV  OF  THE  LATE  WAB. 

on  the  21st  of  August,  and  on  the  22d,  reached 
Upper  Marlborough,  and  the  American  flotilla, 
which  had  ascended  as  high  as  this  place,  was 
now  destroyed,  while  Commodore  Barney,  accor- 
ding to  his  orders,  joined  General  Winder  with 
his  marines.     At  this  time  the  American  Gene- 
ral had  not  more  than  2000  men,  just  collected 
into  camp,  at  a  place  called  tte  Woodyard.    On 
the  22d,  he  fell  back  to  the  Old  Fields,  where 
he  encamped  for  the  night. 

The  General  might  expect  to  be  re-mforced 
in  the  course  of  a  day  or  two,  by  the  mflitia  of 
Baltimore  and  Annapolis,  which,  with  the  volun- 
teers of  Georgetown  and  its  neighborhood,  and 
the  regulars  would  give  him  a  force  of  about 
6,000  men.     As  the  ground  was  extremely  la- 
vorable  for  skirmishing,  and  irregular  fighting, 
he  might  harrass  the  enemy  on  his  advance;  for 
his  force  was  by  no  means  sufficient  to  meet  the 
enemy  in  open  field.    On  the  23d,  the  General 
detached  a  party  under  Colonel  Scott,  for  the 
purpose  of  watching  the  movements  of  the  ene- 
my, and  harrassing  him  in  his  advance.    Within 
six  miles  of  the  American  camp,  the  enemy  was 
descried  marching  in  column;  after  firing  a  few 
rounds,  the  detachment  retreated,  and  the  ene- 
my advancing  three  iriiles  further,  encamped 


appea 
had  e 


nam*  (inmiiin'^'i'iii'    I' ' 


»p  THE  LATB  WAB. 

ruBt,  and  on  the  22d,  reached 
h,  and  the  American  flotilla, 
i  as  high  as  this  place,  was 
le  Commodore  Barney,  accor- 
joined  General  Winder  with 
his  time  the  American  Gene- 
than  2000  men,  just  collected 
ce  called  tl»e  Woodyard.  On 
»ck  to  the  Old  Fields,  where 
tie  night. 

light  expect  to  be  re-inforced 
I  day  or  two,  by  the  mflitia  of 
mpolis,  which,  with  the  volun- 
wn  and  its  neighborhood,  and 
Id  give  him  a  force  of  about 
the  ground  was  extremely  fa- 
ishing,  and  irregular  fighting, 
the  enemy  on  his  advance;  for 
no  means  sufficient  to  meet  the 
ield.    On  the  23d,  the  General 
'  under  Colonel  Scott,  for  the 
ling  the  movements  of  the  ene- 
ng  him  in  his  advance.    Within 
American  camp,  the  enemy  was 
ig  in  colunm;  after  firing  a  few 
ichment  retreated,  and  the  ene- 
throo  miles  further,  encamped 


BDTORV  OF  THE  LATE  WAS. 


187 


for  the  night.    Apprehensive  of  a  mght  attack, 
the  General  marched  about  sunset  mto  Wash- 
ington,  and    encamped    near    the    navy-yard. 
Early  the  next  morning,  the  British  were  dis- 
covered to  have  taken  the  road  to  Bladensburg, 
having  General  Winder's  force  on  his  left  flanl. 
General    Stansbury's    brigade,    about    1300 
strong,  arrived  at  this  place  on  the  22d,  and  was 
joinei  next  day  by  the  Baltimoreans  under  CoU 
Sterret,  about  600  in  number,  but  much  fatigued 
by  a  forced  march;  the  Colonel  was  accompa- 
„L  by  the  artillery  companies  of  Myers  and 
Magrauder,  and  the  light  battalion  of  riflemen 
under  Pickney,  the  Attorney  General. 

On  the  24tli,  about  noon,  the  enemy  made  his 
appearance  near  Bladensburg.    The  Americans 
r  ah.  ady  posted  themselves  in  the  fi>l^owing 
manner     Stansbury's  brigade,  was  drawn  up 
Ttbe  west  side  of  the  Western  Branch   the 
:tiLy  posted  so  as  to  command  th^^^^^^^^^^^ 
the  riflemen  so  as  to  support  ^^^"'^"fy^f J^ 
ret's  regiment  in  an  orchard  m  the  i-ear  ot 
::irii  the  other  troops  in  the  ^.po^^^^ 
the  nature  of  the  ground  would  admit^    Gen^ 
Winder  having  surveyed  this  ^-^-^^W^ 
trooos, which  had  been  made -^^  the -sisance 
of  Colonel   Monroe,  approved  of  them.    Ihe 
M 


188  HISTOBY  OF  THB  1AT»  WAB. 

General  had  already  posted  the  marines  andl 
seamen  on  the  rising  ground,  in  a  position  to 
command  the  road,  in  two  separate  betteries, 
one  under  Commodore  Barney,  the  other  underl 
Captain    Miller.     In  the  rear  of  these,  therel 
was  a  second  line  of  regulars,  volunteers  andl 
militia,  under  General   Smith;  there  was  justi 
time  to  post  those,  about  half  a  mile  in  thel 
rear  of  the  first  line,  when  the  battle  comj 

menced.  ,     .,■  • 

A  strong  regiment  of  Maryland  militia,  oom-l 
manded  by  Colonels  Beal  and  Hood,  at  the  samel 
time  took  posts  on  the  heights  south  of  thel 
great  road  among  the  woods,  whence  they  could! 
annoy  the  approaching  enemy.  Until  this  mo- 
ment, the  heads  of  department,  with  the  Presi-1 
dent,  were  on  the  ground;  it  was  now  deemed 
prudent  to  retire.  I 

The  enemy,  coming  in  view  of  the  American! 
line,  moved  in  column  to  the  bridge.  The  ad-I 
vance  under  Colonel  Thornton,  received  a  mo-l 
mentary  check  from  the  well  served  artilleryl 
of  Myers  and  Magrauder,  and  from  the  fire  of  | 
the  riflemen.  But  rallying  his  men,  the  Colonell 
passed  the  bridge,  and  then  moved  forward,  andl 
was  soon  followed  by  the  main  body  underl 
General  Ross.     The  American  artillery  andl 


OF  THE  1AT«  WAH. 

cady  posted  the  marines  and 
•ising  ground,  in  a  position  to 
lad,  in  two  separate  batteries, 
lodore  Barney,  the  other  under 
In  the  rear  of  these,  there 
ne  of  regulars,  volunteers  and 
Jeneral   Smith;  there  was  just 
^se,  about  half  a  mile  in  the 
St  line,  when  the  battle  com- 
ment of  Maryland  militia,  com 
nels  Beal  and  Hood,  at  the  same] 
s  on  the  heights  south  of  the! 
ig  the  woods,  whence  they  couldj 
oaching  enemy.    Until  this  mo- 
1  of  depiirtment,  with  the  Presi-' 
he  ground;  it  was  now  deemed 
e. 


coming  in  view  of  the  American 
column  to  the  bridge.  The  ad- 
jlonel  Thornton,  received  a  mo 
from  the  well  served  artillery 
Wagrauder,  and  fronj  the  fire  of 
But  rallying  his  men,  the  Colonel 
Ige,  and  then  moved  forward,  and 
owed  by  the  main  body  under 
.     The  American  artillery  and 


HWrORY   OF  THE   L.VTB  WAB. 

riflemen  were  .oon    after  obliged  to  retreat, 
while  the  enemy  continued  to  fiance,  not  a 
little  annoyed  by  the  artillery  of  Major  Peters^ 
When  the  enemy's  right  approached  withm 
musket  range  of  Stansbury's  b.igade,  this  bn- 
nttroke'  all  the  efforts  of  the  commander 
Sneral  Winder,  and  the  other  officers,  could 
not  rally  them.    They  fled  in  «>"f"--'^    J, 
ing  terror  wherever  they  went.     The  BrU^h 
now  proceeded  in  column  along  the  road,  until 
Tycame  suddenly  and  unexpectedly,  m  v.ew 
of  Commodore  Barney,  who  gave  them  so  warm 

a  reception   that  they  ^^-^^^'^^^  ^,'' 
leaving  the  road  strewed  with  their  dead.  They 
deployed,  and  pushing  out  flanking  part.es,  «.- 
de^vored  to  gain  the  .^mencan  re^^J\^^ 
preaching  the  battery  of  Captam  M,l  er,  they 
L  with  a  reception  as  little  ogreeable  as  that 
afforded  them  by  Commodore  Barney    They 
continued,  however,  to  send  out  Aankmg  par 
ties,  until  both  these  gallant  corps  were  m  d^ 
Tr  of  bei.g  cut  off,  when  they  were  order^ 
fo  retreat.     The  Commodore  had  been  severely 
mounded,  and  fell  into  the  -'«-/«  ,»^?"';^-- 
Stansbury's  brigade  had  been  ordered  to  rally 
on  the  second  line,  commanded  by  Gen.  Sm.th 
tit  on  coming  to  the  road  which  led  to  Mont- 


140 


IIISTOBir   OF  TTIE   LATE  »VA2. 


gomery  Court-houso,  they  had  nearly  all  taken 
that  direction,  and  the  remainder  were  dispersed. 
Gen.  Winder,  now  apprehensive  that  this  line 
would  be  outflanked,  ordered  it  to  retreat,  intend- 
ing to  make  another  stand  near  the  capital.  Gen 
Winder  rode  to  the  capital,  and  meeting  witii 
the  President  and  heads  of  departments,  on  con- 
sultation, agreed  that  a  second  attempt,  since 
the  flight  of  the  great  body  of  the  troops  was 
not  practicable.  General  Smith  was  therefore 
ordered  to  march  through  the  city,  and  lake 
position  on  the  heights  of  Georgetown.  Thus 
ended  the  unfortunate  attempt  to  defend  the 
capital  of  the  American  republic.  Public  opin- 
ion has  settled  down  under  the  belief  that  a 
fault  was  committed  by  some  one.  Washing- 
ton c'jght  never  to  have  been  taken;  but  it  is 
not  altogether  wise  to  say  that  if  this  or  that 
officer  had  had  the  command,  the  result  would 
have  been  different.  I  think  the  great  error 
consisted  in  losing  sight  of  the  enemy  a  single 
instant,  after  his  object  was  discovered — every 
inch  of  ground  should  have  been  contested. 

Meeting  with  no  farther  resistance,  the  Bri- 
tish general  approached  the  metropolis  with 
about  1000  men,  where  he  arrived  about  8 
o'clock   in  the    evening,  while  the  remainder 


of  the 

of  the 

also  « 

nately 

inoved 

sideral 

ing  de 

The 

carryi 

meanv 

Gordo 

approi 

diatel} 

witho\ 

ing  n 

place 

the  ',>! 

demai 

a  thri 

hard 

(x>mpl 

with- 

Th 

siicce 

sailoi 

apeat 

landc 


I  OF  THE   LATE  'VA2. 

)iisc,  they  had  nearly  all  taken 
I  the  rcniaindur  were  dispersed. 
w  apprehensive  that  this  line 
ed,  ordered  it  to  retreat,  intend- 
ler  stand  near  the  capital.  Gen. 
;he  capital,  and  meeting  with 
I  heads  of  departments,  on  con- 
I  that  a  second  attempt,  since 

great  body  of  the  troops  was 

General  Smith  was  therefore 
h  through  the  city,  and  take 
leights  of  Georgetown.  Thus 
tunate  attempt  to  defend  the 
lerican  republic.  Public  opin- 
lown  under  the  belief  that  a 
tted  by  some  one.    Washing- 

to  have  been  taken ;  but  it  is 
se  to  say  that  if  this  or  that 
the  command,  the  result  would 
rent.  I  think  the  great  error 
ig  sight  of  the  enemy  a  single 

object  was  discovered — every 
should  have  been  contested, 
no  farther  resistance,  the  Bri- 
proached  the  metropolis  with 
1,  where  he  arrived  about  8 
evening,  while  the  remainder 


HISTORY  OF  TUB  LATK  WAH. 


141 


of  the  army  encamped  within  a  mile  or  two 
of  the  place.  The  libraries  were  burnt,  as 
also  were  the  different  offices,  whence  fortu- 
nately the  archives  of  the  States  hud  been  re- 
moved. The  loss  of  the  British  was  very  con- 
siderable; it  is  estimated  at  1000,  many  havr 
ing  deserted. 

The  enemy  retreated  to  Benedict  on  the  26th, 
carrying'  away  considerable  booty.  In  the 
meanwhile,  the  naval  detachment  under  Capt. 
Gordon,  ascended  the  Potomac,  and  on  the  27th, 
approached  fort  Washington,  which  was  imme- 
diately blown  up  by  the  officer  commanding, 
without  firing  a  gun!  The  enemy  now  meet- 
ing no  oppo  'tion,  passed  to  Alexandria,  which 
place  '/as  put  under  a  heavy  contribution.  All 
the  ',<rodjce,  merchandise  and  shipping,  were 
demanded,  and  required  to  be  delivered  under 
a  threat  of  destroying  the  town.  With  these 
hard  conditions  the  citizens  were  obliged  to 
mmply,'  and  the  British  descended  the  bay 
with  a  very  respectable  anxount  of  plunder. 

The  third  division  of  the  invaders  was  not  so 
successful.  Sir  Peter  Parker,  with  a  body  of 
sailors  and  marines,  who  ascended  the  Ches- 
apeake, met  with  a  different  fortune.  Having 
landed  about  200  of  his  men  for  the  purpose  of 


142 


HI8T0BT   OF  TUK   LATK  WAS. 


T 

th 


dispersing  a  body  of  Maryland  militia,  near 
Georgetown  Cross  Roads,  he  was  met  with 
firmness  quite  unexpected;  and  after  a  sharp 
action  he  received  a  mortal  wound,  on  which 
his  detachment  fell  back  to  their  ships,  losing 
upwards  of  30  in  killed  and  wounded. 

The  British  forces  in  the  Chesapeake  and 
its  waters,  assembled  under  the  commander-in 
chief,  Admiral  Cochrane,  and  now  composed  a 
most  formidable  armada  of  more  than  fifty  sail, 
having  on  board  mere  than  5000  land  troops, 
under  General  Ross. 

On  the  10th  of  September,  the  anxiously 
expected  enemy  appeared  at  the  mouth  of  the 
Patapsco,  14  miles  below  Baltimore.  The  de- 
fence of  this  flourishing  and  populous  city  was 
assigned  to  Major  General  Smith,  and  Briga- 
dier General  Strickler:  both  revolutionary  vet- 
erans.. The  latter,  at  his  request,  was  detached 
to  meet  the  enemy  at  his  landing,  near  North 
Point.  The  General  accordingly  marched  with 
a  part  of  his  brigade,  and  several  additional 
corps  of  artillery,  cavalry  and  riflemen,  in  the 
whole  about  3000  men.  A  detachment  was  or- 
dered to  move  forward  to  watch  the  enero'. 
On  the  evening  of  the  11th,  the  troops  reacheii 
their  place  of  destination,  seven    miles   below 


the  citi 

brough 

barking 

the  Gci 

diflferen 

right   < 

swamp, 

Major 

skirmis 

the  ad^ 

Genen 

his  trc 

which 

comma 

with  t 

and  CO 

ets;a 

tillery 

ly  retv 

becam 

Th« 


ig.JiWJUBimlMiMil'lll'" 


OF  TUE   LATE  WAB. 

y  of  Maryland  militia,  near 
IS  Roads,  he  was  met  with 
lexpectcd;  and  after  a  sharp 
3d  a  mortal  wound,  on  which 
ill  back  to  their  ships,  losing 
killed  and  wounded. 
>rces  in  the  Chesapeake  and 
ibled  under  the  commander-in 
ochrane,  and  now  composed  a 
urmada  of  more  than  fifty  sail, 
>  mere  than  5000  land  troops, 
losii. 

of  September,  the  anxiously 
appeared  at  the  mouth  of  the 
[es  below  Baltimore.  The  de- 
urishing  and  populous  city  was 
}r  General  Smith,  and  Briga- 
ickler:  both  revolutionary  vot- 
er, at  his  request,  was  detached 
my  at  his  landing,  near  North 
leral  accordingly  marched  with 
trigade,  and  several  additional 
y,  cavalry  and  riflemen,  in  the 
K)  men.  A  detachment  was  or- 
forward  to  watch  the  enero'. 
of  the  11th,  the  troops  reacheu 
estination,  seven    miles   below 


HISTOBT   OF  TBS  lATB  WAB. 


143 


MtMMMIWBWfcWL'»"^ 


the  city.     Early  in  the  morning,  the  videttea 
brought  information  that  the  enemy  was  de- 
barking under  cover  of  his  gun-boats;  on  thlj 
the  General  took  position  at  the  junption  of  the 
different  roads  leading  from  the  city,  resting  his 
right   on   Bear   Creek,  his  left  covered    by  a 
swamp,  and  in  this  situation  awaited  the  enemy. 
Major  Heath,  who   had  been   sent  forward  to 
skirmish  with  the  enemy,  now  retired  before 
the  advancing  columns  of  General  Ross.     The 
General,  while   reconnoiteriug  at  the  head  of 
his  troops,  received  a  rifle  ball  in  the  breast, 
which  put  at  once  an  end  to  his  career.     The 
command  devolving  on  Col.  Brooks,  he  moved 
with  the  whole  force,  little  short  of  7000  men, 
and  commenced  the  engagement  by  firing  rock- 
ets;  a  brisk  cannonade  was  oiwned  from  the  ar- 
tillery of  Capt.  Montgomery,  which  was  warm- 
ly returned  by  the  enemy,  and  the  action  soon 

became  general.  . 

The   American    commander    mamtamed  his 

ground  an  hour  and  a  half  against  the  superior 
numbers  of  the  British.  Unfortunately,  how- 
ever, the  regiment  stationed  on  the  left  gave 
way,  and  his  flank  became  exposed,  which  com- 
pelled him  sooner  than  if  this  had  not  happened, 
to  retire  upon  his  reserve,  a  regiment  posted 


144 


IIHTOBY    OF  THE   LATK  WA«. 


half  a  inile  in  the  rear.     This  being  effected, 
he  tiH.k  up  his  march  and  retired  to  the  en- 
trcnchiDonta  thrown  up  on  the  rising  ground  to 
the  eust  of  the  city,  where  he  was  presently 
joined  by  Generals  Winder  and  Douglass,  with 
a  brigade  of  Virginia  militia,  and  Captain  Burd's 
United  States  dragoons.     In  this  well   fought 
battle  there  were  not  more  than  1400  men  on 
the  American  side,  their  numbers  having  been 
diminshcd  by  the  reserve,  and  by  the  unfortu- 
noto  poiiic  which  seized  the  troops  that  gave 
way.    The  loss  on  the  American  side  was  about 
180   in  killed  and   wounded;  the    British  loss 
was  at  least  600. 

The  brigades  under  General  Stansbury  and 
Forman,  the  seamen  and  marines  under  Com- 
modore R<Klgcrs,  the  Pennsylvania  volunteers, 
the  Ifeltimore  marine  artillery,  manned  the  en- 
trenchments and  heavy  batteries.  Thus  posted, 
ihcy  courageously  waited  the  approach  of  the 
enemy,  who  had  not  thought  proper  to  push 
forward  after  the  battle  of  North  Point.  Next 
morning  the  hostile  army  appeared  within  two 
miles  in  front  of  the  American  lines,  inclined  to 
the  York  and  Hartford  Roads,  as  if  to  reach  the 
town  in  that  direction;  but  observing  that  Gene- 
rals Strieker  and  Winder  adapted  their  move 


mentE 
proHc 
In 
powoi 
whicl: 
water 
cd  to 
compi 
by  a 
tenes 
one  I 
under 

V088C 

tne  g 
durin 
mteri 
peilec 
they 
of  th 
comp 
sever 
proac 
tacke 
of  th 
By 
land 
agree 


iMmwiW-w.'*"'  ''"»'* 


OF  THE   LATE  WAB. 

\e  rear.  This  being  effected, 
march  and  retired  to  the  en- 
iwn  up  on  the  rising  ground  to 
city,  where  he  was  presently 
als  Winder  and  Douglass,  witii 
inia  militia,  and  Captain  Burd's 
ragoons.  In  this  well  fought 
0  not  more  than  1400  men  on 
Jc,  their  numbers  having  been 

0  reserve,  and  by  the  unfortu- 
h  seized  the  troops  that  gave 
on  the  American  side  was  about 
nd   wounded;  the    British  loss 

under  General  Stansbury  and 
imen  and  marines  under  Com- 
j,  the  Pennsylvania  volunteers, 
larine  artillery,  manned  the  en 

1  heavy  batteries.  Thus  posted, 
sly  waited  the  opprooch  of  the 
d  not  thought  proper  to  push 
le  battle  of  North  Point.  Ne.\t 
stile  army  appeared  within  two 
r  the  American  lines,  inclined  to 
avtford  Roads,  as  if  to  reach  the 
ection;  but  observing  that  Genc- 
tid  Winder  adapted  their  move 


nnroRT  or  m*  latb  was. 


145 


ments  so  as  to  counteract  this  design,  it  ap- 
proached within  a  mile,  a.4  if  to  attack  in  front. 

In  the  midst  of  these  important  ojierationa,  a 
powerful  attac  k  was  mode  upon  Fort  M'Henrjr, 
which  commands  the  approach  to  the  city  by 
water.  The  defence  of  this  place  was  entrust- 
ed to  Major  Aniiistoad,  together  with  scveml 
companies  of  Hultiriiorc  artil'.erists,  supported 
by  a  body  of  iiilantry  and  murines.  Two  bat- 
teries to  the  right,  were  manned  by  sailors,  the 
one  under  Lieutenant  Newconib,  and  the  other 
under  LieuteniuU  Webster.  The  bombarding 
vessels,  placing  themselves  out  of  the  reach  of 
tne  guns  of  the  fort,  continued  throwing  shells 
during  the  whole  day  and  night,  with  very  little 
interruption,  while  those  in  the  fort  were  conv- 
pelled  to  reniuin  entirely  inactive.  Once  indeed, 
they  approached  sufficiently  near  for  the  guns 
of  the  fort  to  be  broi:ght  to  bear,  which  sooa 
compelled  tlicni  to  retire.  During  the  nighl 
several  of  their  barges  were  discovered  ap- 
proaching the  shore,  and  were  immediately  at- 
tacked fioin  the  batteries  to  the  right,  and  one 
of  them  destroyed. 

By  this  time,  on  consultation  between  the 
land  and  naval  commanders,  it  was  mutually 
agreed  that  the  capture  of  the  city  was  imprac- 
7  N 


140  HIPTOBY   0»  TH«   tA"  ''*•• 

ticublc.  The  .-elroat  of  the  army  wa.  com- 
Zn^d  under  cover  of  a  dark  and  tempe.tuous 
Tght  The  next  n^orning  they  had  ent.re^ 
dUappeared  from  before  the  line.,  and  were  im- 
S^ciy  pur.ued  by  General  W.nde.  wh 
captured  a  few  ..ragglern.  Colonel  Brooks  re- 
embarkcd  his  troop*  in  safety. 

CHAPTER  XV. 

.      f  Ik.    wmr— Briii»h  defeated  »t  Pl»ttt- 

flloriout    evenW  of   the    "'•'"T      V»  ..-. Pmre 

hutfch-RepulMd  at  Nexv  Oileon^-Fewe. 


We  have  already  mentioned  the  departure  of 
General  Izu.d  for  Plattsburgh,  and  that  General 
M'Comb  was  left  in  command,  with  hfle  more 
than  1400  roRulars,  many  of  which  were  mva- 
lidH.      Towards  the  latter  end  of  August,  Sir 
George   Provost  had  collected  an  army. of  as 
many  thousands,  chiefly  veteran  troops,  with  a 
view,  as  it  has  since  been  ascertained,  of  pene- 
trating to  the  Hudson.     Sir  George,  about  the 
first  of  September,  passed  into  the  American 
territory,  while  at  the  same  time,  a  squadi  ,n 
under  Captain  Downie  entered  Lake  Champlain 
General    M'Comb  and  Commodore  M'Don 
oougb,  were  not  idle  in  making  every  prepara 
tion  to  oppose  the  most  effectual  resistance  t( 


this  nK 

under 

anothe 

added 

militia 

arrivir 

industi 

ortion 

ded  a ' 

the  en 

the  tii 

the  la 

boys 

a  com 

battle. 

Wood 

at  the 

cing 

Georj 

sion  c 

ed  be 

river 

theb 

inacti 

the  t 

ture 

es,  h' 


or  THB  i^""  ^*** 

■o«t  of  the  army  was  com- 
nr  of  a  dark  and  tempestuous 
morning  they  had  entirely 
before  the  lines,  and  were  im- 
i  by  General  Winder,  who 
ragglers.  Colonel  Brooks  re- 
>ps  in  safety. 


HAPTER  XV. 

th«    w«r-Brili.h  defe«ttd  »t  Plato- 
ilMd  at  New  Oileans— Feace. 

idy  mentioned  the  departure  of 
,r  Plattsburgh,  and  that  General 
1  in  command,  with  little  more 
lars,  many  of  which  were  ihva- 
the  latter  end  of  August,  Sir 
t  had  collected  an  army. of  as 
8,  chiefly  veteran  troops,  with  a 
since  been  ascertained,  of  pene 
Hudson.     Sir  George,  about  the 
nber,  passed  into  the  American 
i  at  the  same  time,  a  squadi  -n 
Downie  entered  Lake  Champlain 
Comb  and  Commodore  M'Don 
,ot  idle  in  making  every  prepara 
the  most  effectual  resistance  t( 


HUTOBV  or  TBB  LATB  WAB.  J47 

thit  most  formidable  enemy.     A  body  of  militia 
under  General  Moers,  of  New- York,  and  also 
another  from  Vermont,  under  General  Strong, 
added  to  the  strength  of  the  place,  while  the 
militi<\  called  in  from  all  quarters  were  daily 
arriving.     The  naval  commander  was  equally 
industrious;  as  an  instance  of  the  wonderful  ex 
ortion  made  on  this  important  occasion,  he  ad 
ded  a  brig  to  his  force,  before  greatly  inferior  to 
the  enemy's,  in  the  short  period  of  twenty  days, 
the  timber  of  which  was  actually  growing  on 
the  lake  when  the  vessel  was  begun.      Even 
boys  were  armed,  and  for     ug  themselves  into 
a  company,  were  found  dlicient  on  the  day  of 
battle.    General  Moers,  Colonel  Appling,  Major 
Wood,  and  Captain  Sproul,  were  sent  forward 
at  the  head  of  detachments,  to  meet  the  advan- 
cing  foe.     It  was  not  till  the    10th,  that  Sir 
George  reached  Plattsburgh,  and  took  posses- 
sion of  the  village,  while  the  Americans  retreat- 
ed behind  their  defences  on  the  other  side  of  the 
river  Saranac,  having  taken  up  the  planks  of 
the  bridges.     Here  the  British  remained  almost 
inacUve  for  several  days,  waiting  no  doubt  for 
the  arrival  of  their  squadron,  intendiug  to  cap- 
ture the  American  ships.     Numerous  skirmish- 
es, however,  occurred  daily. 


•iMaliwtt 


^^H^IUggll^l^ffg 


148 


niSTOBY   OF  THE  lATE  WAB. 


m 


■-% 


On  the  11th,  early  in  the  morning,  the  look- 
out boats  of  Commodore  M'Donnough  at  last 
espied  the  approach  of  Captain  Downie,  in  order 
of  battle.     His  line  consisted  of  the  frigate 
Coniiance,  39  guns;  the  brig  Linnet,  16  guns; 
the  sloop  Chub  uid  Finch,  1 1  guns  each;  and  13 
gallies,  five    of   which  carried  two,  and  the 
others  one  gun  each.     The  American  squadron 
consisted  of  the  Saratoga,  26  guns;  the  Eagle 
86  guns;  the  Ticonderoga,  17  guns;  the  Preble, 
7  gun.,  and  ten  gallies,  six  of  which  caVried 
two  guns,  the  others  one.    It  lay  moored  in  a 
line  with  the  bay  of  Plattsburgli,  having  on  each 
flank  a  division  of  gun  boats.    At  ten  o'clock 
Captain    Downie    ranged    his    ships    directly 
abreast  the  American  line,  within  300  yards: 
the  Confiance  opposite  the  Saratoga,  n  id  the 
Linnet  the  Eagle.     Dreadful  was  the  thunder- 
ing battle  which  now  ensued :  havoc  and  death 
ruled  the  frightful  fray.     About  ten  the  Eagle 
changed  her  position,  opposed  to  a  ship  of  vastly 
superior  force;  nearly  all  the  guns  of  this  ves- 
sel, upon  whose  success  huig  the  fate  of  the  bat- 
tle, being  dismounted,  an  effort  was  made  to 
swing  her  round  that  her  other  broadside  might 
be  brought  to  bear.    Providence  favored  the  at- 
tempt; the  same  experiment  was  tried  with  the 


jigWJf  i.gnKStllHHHMI 


Coniianc 

this,  she 

opposed 

drifted  ( 

had  gor 

effected 

with  dif 

hours,  a 

humble 

freedom 

This 

view  o1 

filled  w 

beholdii 

struck  y 

cans  w 

words. 

wounde 

wounde 

Thenu 

side,  w; 

prisone 

Americ 

British 


OF  THE  LATE  WAB. 


T 


rly  in  the  morning,  the  look 
modore  M'Donnough  at  last 
I  of  Captain  Downie,  in  order 
ne  consisted  of  the  frigate 
3;  the  brig  Linnet,  16  guns; 
I  Finch,  11  guns  each;  and  13 
vhich  carried  two,  and  the 
ih.     The  American  squadron 
laratoga,  26  guns;  the  Eagle 
nderoga,  17  guns;  the  Preble, 
gallies,  six  of  which  caVried 
lers  one.    It  lay  moored  in  a 
if  Plattsburgli,  having  on  each 
)f  gun  boats.    At  ten  o'clock 
ranged    his    ships    directly 
ican  line,  within  300  yards: 
posite  the  Saratoga,  n  ad  the 
Dreadful  was  the  thunder- 
now  ensued :  havoc  and  death 
il  fray.     About  ten  the  Eagle 
,on,  opposed  to  a  ship  of  vastly 
sarly  all  the  guns  of  this  vcs- 
iccesshuigthe  fate  of  the  bat- 
inted,  an  effort  was  made  to 
that  her  other  broadside  might 
r.    Providence  favored  the  at- 
jxpcriment  was  tried  with  the 


HISTORY  OF  THE  LATE  WAR. 


149 


Confiance,  but  without  success;  on  perceiving 
this,  she  was  compelled  to  strike.  The  vessel 
opposed  to  the  Eagle  had  already  struck,  and 
drifted  out  of  the  line.  Three  of  the  gallies 
had  gone  to  the  bottom  of  the  lake,  the  others 
effected  their  escape,  although  heavy  laden 
with  disgrace.  Thus,  after  an  action  of  two 
hours,  a  second  British  squadron  was  oblged  to 
humble  itself  before  the  strength  of  American 
freedom  and  justice. 

This  sublime  naval  combat,  took  place  in 
view  of  both  armies;  the  hearts  of  all  were 
filled  with  deep  anxiety   for  the  result.    On 
beholding  the  consummation,  the  British  were 
struck  with  horror  and  grief,  while  the  Ameri- 
cans were  elated    beyond  the  expression  of 
words.     The  Americans  had  161  in  killed  and 
wounded.    Of  the  enemy  200  were  killed  and 
wounded,  among  the  former.  Captain  Downie. 
The  number  of  men  engaged,  on  the  American 
side,  was  820,  on  the  British  1060,  so  that  the 
[prisoners  alone,  exceeded  the  number  of  the 
Americans.    The  Americans  had  84  guns,  the 

Iritish  96. 


liiiTiffr""  """-•' 


150  HWTOSV  OF  THE  lATB  WAB. 

CHAPTER  XVI. 

D.f«.c.  of  New   Orleans^BnUiant  tennination   of  A.  | 

On  the  meeting  of  Congress,  the  President 
laid    before    them    the    chequered    scenes  of 
the    past   year.    The   thanks  of  this    body, 
together  with  medals  and  other  rewards  were 
voted  to  the  heroes  of  the  last  campaign  on 
Niagara  and  at  Plattsburgh.    Very  soon  after 
the  meeting  of  the  Congress,  news  from    he 
southward    awakened    the  attention    and   the 
anxiety  of  all  Americans.     Intelligence  from 
that  quarter  left  no  doubt  of  an  intended  mva- 
aion  of  Louisiana.      Gen.  Jackson,  so  distm- 
Ruished  for  his  zeal,  and  for  his  victories  over 
the  Creeks,  was  appointed  a  Major  General,  and 
the  command  of  the  southern  district  assigned 
to  him.     In  tlie  summer  of  1814,  he  fixed  his 
headquarters  at  Mobile,  where  he  assembled  a 
respectable  force  of  regulars,  volunteers  and 
militia,  the  two  last  from  Tennessee  chiefly. 

On  the  26th  of  September,  a  squadron  of  the 
enemy,  consisting  of  two  frigates  and  two  gun 
brigs,  appeared  before  Fort  Bowyer,  at  Mobile 
Point,  then  garrisoned  by  Major  Lawrence  with 
about  120  men.    A  land  force  under  Captam 


Wood 

400  I 

fort  b; 

attack 

were 

well  I 

they 

haste 

of  th 

blow 

belie 

side 

T 


evei 

rati< 

em 

mai] 

con 

ber 

inv 

def 

anc 

( 

wi 
wl 
H< 


r  OF  THE  lATB  WAB. 

HAPTER  XVI. 

)rlean»— BriUiant  tennination   of  ih« 
War. 

ng  of  Congress,  the  President 
m    the    chequered    scenes  of 
The    thanks   of  this    body, 
nedals  and  other  rewards  were 
eroes  of  the  last  campaign  on 
Plattsburgh.    Very  soon  after 
the  Congress,  news  from  the 
jtkened    the  attention   and   the 
Americans.     Intelligence  from 
ft  no  doubt  of  an  intended  inva- 
iana.      Gen.  Jackson,  so  distin- 
,  zeal,  and  for  his  victories  over 
B  appointed  a  Major  General,  and 
of  the  southern  district  assigned 
,e  summer  of  1814,  he  fixed  his 
at  Mobile,  where  he  assembled  a 
rce  of  regulars,  volunteers  and 

0  last  from  Tennessee  chiefly. 

1  of  September,  a  squadron  of  the 
ting  of  two  frigates  and  two  gun 
ed  before  Fort  Bowyer,  at  Mobile 
irrisoned  by  Major  Lawrence  with 
en.    A  land  force  under  Captain 


HISTORY  OF  THE  lATK  WAH. 


151 


Woodbine,  consisting  of  about  100  ">«"«««' "^"^ 
400  Indians  uuier  Col.  Nicholas,  mvested  the 
fort  by  land.  The  fort  withstood  this  combmed 
attack  with  the  utmost  firmness;  the  land  troops 
were  compelled  to  retire,  and  the  fire  was  so 
well  directed  against  the  Brmsh  vesse  s,  that 
they  were  compelled  to  cut  the.r  cables  and 
Sen  out  of  the  way,  but  not  without  the  loss 
of  their  flag  ship,  which  was  set  on  fire  and 

blown  up.      The  loss  of  the  assalants  was 
Sed'obe  very  serious,  on  the  Amencan 

side  it  was  trifling.  ^Uo  rhesa- 

The  British  fleet,  after  leavmg  the  Chesa 
peake  had  gone  chiefly  to  the  Bemu^a^,  a^_ 
Tvery  day  brought  accounts  of  unpoftant  pre^ 
rations  for  some  enterprise  agmnst  the  South 
1  States.    The  mighty  ^r.r..rr.n.ji^^^^ 
made  its  appearance   in  the  Gulf  of  Mexico, 
^l^ltingofsixty  sail,  attended  byava^num^ 

ber  of  barges  and  transports.  The  foe  was 
S^vited  by  Lopulenc.  of  New  Orleans  and^^ 
defenceless  state;  here  they  anticipated  an  easy 
and  profitable  contest.  nM^«na. 

General  Jackson  hastened  to  New  Orleana 
wifhhL  brave  Tennesseeans,  and  his  regulars, 

rhere  he  arrived  on  the  2nd  of  December^ 
Se  super-tended  in  person  all  the  works  which 


IQS  IIISTOBY  OF  TUB  lATE  WAB. 

the  tin  would  allow  him  to  construct,  and 
review-  the  different  corps  of  militia  and 
volunteers  of  the  city  and  country. 

On  the  12th  of  December,  the  enemy's  fleet 
appeared  in  the  bay  of  St.  Louis,  and  the 
American  flotilla  of  gun-boats  commanded  by 
Lieut.  Jones,  then  lying  p  Oat  Island,  ascended 
the  bay  to  take  a  positio.*  more  favorable  for 
watching  the  enemy's  movements.  Two  days 
afterwards  the  gun-boais  were  attacked  by  forty 
launches  and  barges,  manned  by  at  least  a 
thousand  men,  and  after  a  most  heroie  resist- 
ance, in  which  many  of  the  enemy  were  des- 
troyed, the  gun-boats  surrendered. 

The  danger  was  now  at  hand:  Gen..  Jackson 
j«sorted  to  the  expedient,  excusable  only  in  the 
last  extremity  of  danger;  of  declaring  martial 
law,  and  the  whole  of  the  militia  was  called  out 
on  duty.  The  Legislature  then  in  session, 
made  appropriations,  and  an  embargo  was  laid 
«ii  all  vessels  then  in  port.  No  exertion  that 
eould  be  made  was  omitted.  On  the  Slst,  Gen. 
Carroll  arrived  from  Tennessee  with  4000  men, 
ijiany  of  them  not  armed,  and  others  badly. 
About  this  time  the  city  received  a  new  acces- 
sion of  force  from  *he  arrival  of  the  Baritariait 
pirates.     Their  leader  had  received  offers  from 


theEf 

themsi 

For  tb 

■elves 

Th 

left  tl 

lakes. 

the  c 

enum 

the  s 

This 

Ville 

aoqui 

natei 

the  I 

my, 

un)M 

the 

aboi 

Thi 

inst 

to  I 

itai 

ttOB 

I 

ma 
Ge 


r  TIW  lATK  WAB. 

)w  him  to  construct,  and 
rent  corps  of  militia  and 
y  and  country, 
lecember,  the  enemy's  fleet 
ay  of  St.  Louis,  and  the 
r  gun-boats  commanded  by 
,ring  p  Oat  Island,  ascended 
«sitio.4  more  favorable  for 
y's  movements.  Two  days 
wais  were  attacked  by  forty 
es,  manned  by   at  least  a 

after  a  most  heroic  resist- 
ly  of  the  enemy  were  des- 
s  surrendered. 
I  now  at  hand:  Gen..  Jackson 
sdient,  excusable  only  in  the 
anger;  of  declaring  martial 
of  the  militia  was  called  out 
sgislature  then  in  session, 
IS,  and  an  embargo  was  laid 

in  port.  No  exertion  that 
omitted.  On  the  Slst,  Gen. 
m  Tennessee  with  4000  men, 
ot  armed,  and  others  badly, 
ifc  city  received  a  new  acoes- 
*he  arrival  of  the  Baritariaii 
ider  had  received  offers  from 


HisToav  or  thk  iatb  war. 


169 


the  English  which  were  refused.  They  offered 
themselves  to  Gen.  Jackson,  and  were  received. 
For  their  bravery  their  chief  Lafitte,  and  them- 
■elves,  received  a  full  pardon. 

The  capture  of  the  squadron  of  gun-boata 
left  the  way  open  (o  attack  on  the  side  of  the 
lakes     It  was  therefore  necessary  to  close  alf 
the  canals  or  bayou..,  which  would  enable  tte 
enemy  to  pass  through  the  swamp  and  roacW 
the  strip  of  dry  land  on  the  bank  of  the  river. 
This  important  duty  was  entrusted  to  (^neral 
Villere,  a    native    of   the  country,  ""^    well 
aoquuintfcd   with  tlm  secret  passages.     UnfortUr 
nately,the  guard  stationed  at  the  entrance  of 
the  bayou  15ien-veau  was  captured,  and  the  ene- 
„y,   procccJiug    with  groat  caution,  reached 
un,«rceived  the  fir...  land,  and  emerged  from 
the  forest  at  ti.o  bank  of  the   mighty   nver, 
about  3  o'clock  1'.  M.,  on  tbo  23d  of  December. 
This    force    consisted    of   four    thou^d,  and 
instead  of  .noviufj  directly  .m  to  the  city,  halted 
to  proi.are  li.eir  u.cal,  and  then  march  toward- 
it  at  their  lelsu ro,  a.  it  was  now,  in  the»r  esl.mar 
tion,  entirely  in  their  power. 

imelligenco  of  this  unexpected  and  alamung 
„arch  of    the    British,  was   «>— 'f;^''^ 
Gen.  Jackson  by  Major  Villere,  who  had  been 
7* 


r 


154         BvnwT  or  to»  iat«  was. 
taken  prisoner,  but  had  contrived  to  effect  his 
Wape     The  General,  with  his  usual  prompti- 
tude,  hesitated  not  a  moment    in  taking  the 
measures;    to    which    under    Providence,  the 
fortune  of  the  war  may  be  ascribed.    He  uwued 
orders  fot  the  troops  under  the  command  of 
Gea.  Coffee,  stationed  some  miles  up  the  river, 
to  mareh  to  the  place  of  rendezvous,  and  giving 
orders  for  all  the  other  corps  to  be  collected 
with  the  utmost  speed,  he  put  himself  at  the 
head  of  the  regulars,  the  city  militia,  and  the 
battalion  of  colored  troops,  and  advanced  a  few 
miles  below  the  city  where  ho  halted  to  give 
time  for  the  remainder  of  his  forces  to  join  him. 
The  schooner  Caroline  was  at  the  same  time 
ordered  to  drop  down  the  river.    Gen.  Jackson 
ibeing  joined  by  the  other  troops,  now  pursued 
•his  march;  but  it  was  some  time  after  dark 
before  he  came  near  the  British  encampment. 
Gen.  Coffee  with  his  riflemen  was  placed  on  the 
•left  near  the  woods,  while  the  other  troops  led 
by  Jack**'  in  person,  attacked  in  front.    The 
signal  was  given  by  a  broadside  from  the  Caro- 
line, which  did  great  execution,  as  the  British 
were  gathered  round  their  fires  and  entirely  off 
Iheir  guard.    The  enemy  were  at  first  struck 
with  constenwition,  IbMt  after  some  time  being 


n 
o 

tl 
t 


pr  THB  UiTK  WAB. 

had  contrived  to  efi^  his 

ral,  with  his  usual  prompti* 

a  moment    in  taking  the 

ich    under    Providencet  the 

may  be  ascribed.     He  issued 

ops  under  the  command  of 

led  some  miles  up  the  river^ 

ce  of  rendezvous,  and  giving 

other  corps  to  be  collected 

peod,  he  put  himself  at  the 

ars,  tho  city  militia,  and  the 

id  troops,  and  advanced  a  few 

ity  where  ho  halted  to  give 

nder  of  his  forces  to  join  him. 

roline  was  at  the  same  time 

own  the  river.    Gen.  Jackson 

he  other  troops,  now  pursued 

t  was  some  time  after  dark 

tear  the  British  encampment. 

his  riflemen  was  placed  on  the 

)ds,  while  tho  other  troops  led 

irson,  attacked  in  front.    Tho 

by  a  broadside  from  the  Caro- 

reat  execution,  as  the  British 

ind  their  fires  and  entirely  off 

e  enemy  were  at  first  struck 

i»  but  after  some  time  being 


niSTORT  at  THK  LATX  WAB. 


155 


rallied,  they  formed  and  returned  tho  fire  of  the 
Americans.  A  thick  fog  about  this  time  arose, 
and  Jackson  considering  it  imprudent  to  con- 
tinue the  fight  any  longer,  sounded  a  retreat;  a 
company  of  city  riffcmen,  however,  missing 
their  way,  fell  in  with  a  body  of  the  enemy 
and  were  taken  prisoners.  The  General  re- 
tired to  a  piece  of  ground  two  miles  nearer  the 
city,  where  there  formerly  had  been  a  mill  race; 
this  position  offered  considerable  advantages  in 
the  speedy  erection  of  defences,  as  it  answered 
all  tho  purposes  of  a  ditch.  The  loss  of  the 
Americans  in  this  bold  and  well  advised  attacA, 
was  23  killed,  and  116  wounded  and  74  miss- 
ing. The  British  loss  was  estimated  at  46 
killed,  167  wounded  and  64  missing.  Thie 
battle  saved  the  city  of  New  Orleans,  for  had 
tho  British  advanced  the  next  morning  it  would 
have  been  impossible  to  have  withstood  them. 
Fortunately,  all  the  prisoners  who  fell  into 
their  hands  concurred  in  magnifying  the  Ameri- 
cen  force  to  10  or  15000  men. 

In  the  mean  time,  a  prodigious  effort  wae 
making  to  fortify  the  American  position.  Baloa 
of  cotton  were  used  to  expedite  the  erection  of^ 
the  breast  Ts-ork.  In  a  few  days,  the  line  er 
tended  a  thousand  yards  to  the  swamp,  which 
O 


196 


HUTOBT  t»  ram  IiAtb  wax. 


w*a  there  impaamble.  A  swell  in  the  river, 
Camewhat  unusual  at  this  season,  enabled  them 
to  make  an  opening  in  the  levee,  and  to  flood 
the  ground  in  front  oC  the  line,  and  when  the 
lyaler  subsided,  a  sufficient  quantity  was  left  in 
the  ditch.  On  the  opposite  bank  of  the  river, 
some  works  were  also  constructed,  and  batteries 
erected.  On  the  26th  tKe  British  directed  liot 
•hot  at  the  Caroline,  who  from  her  position 
•nnoyed  them  exceedingly.  They  succeeded 
Hm  blowing  her  up.  Two  days  afterwards,  they 
mvla  a  general  attuck  on  the  American  lines 
with  bombs,  rockets  and  artillery,  but  after  a 
hir  experiment,  they  retired  in  the  evening 
with  considerable  loss.  On  the  Ist  of  January, 
having  during  the  night  erected  batteries  within 
A  fe  ^  hundred  yards  of  the  American  works, 
tliey  made  another  attack,  and  were  compelled 
once  more  to  rehire  with  the  loss  of  70  men. 
The  brig  Louisiana,  had  taken  the  place  of  the 
Caroline,  and  greatly  incommoded  them.  On 
the  4th,  Generals  Thomas  and  Adair,  arrived  at 
the  head  of  2600  militia  from  Kentucky.  On 
the  6th,  the  British  were  re-inforced  by  Gene- 
ral Lambert;  their  whole  force  under  General 
Pftckenham,  was  little  short  of  10,000  men,  and 
it  was  now  resolved  to  force  the  American  lines 


by  tn 
heterd 
tries  a 
krlyt 

In 

infinit 

ning  ' 

proacl 

numb 

Duriii 

the  fi 

unusi 

everj 

hadl 

of  Ii| 

thei 

oolui 

cine 

can  I 

appi 

artif 

thej 

levj 

gio 


^^.jt, 


BMiirliKf  ■ 


Inn  LA.VU  WAS. 

A  swell  in  the  river, 
this  season,  eoabled  them 
'in  the  levee,  and  to  flood 
•r  the  line,  and  when  the 
icient  quantity  was  leA  in 
pposite  bank  of  the  river, 
constructed,  and  batteries 
h  tKe  British  directed  hot 
who  rrom  her  position 
dingly.     They  succeeded 
Two  days  afterwards,  they 
:k  on  the  American  lines 
and  artillery,  but  after  a 
y  retired  in  the  evening 
!■    On  the  1st  of  January, 
{ht  erected  batteries  within 
»  of  the  American  works, 
ittack,  and  were  compelled 
with  the  loss  of  70  men. 
had  taken  the  place  of  the 
'  incommoded  them.    On 
DQias  and  Adair,  arrived  at 
litiafrom  Kentucky.    On 
vere  i^e-inforced  by  Gene- 
hole  force  under  General 
short  of  10,000  men,  and 
>  force  the  American  lines 


msTcmy  or  ths  iatb  was. 


1B7 


by  main  strength.  These  were  manned  by 
heterogeneous  materials;  men  of  different  coun- 
tries  and  languages,  and  not  all  armed,  particu- 
larly the  militia  last  arrived. 

In   the  night  of  the  7th  the   enemy  with 
infinite  labor  succeeded  in  widening  and  deep- 
ning  the  swamp  drain,  by  which  they  liad  ap- 
proached  the   river,  so  as  to  get  a  sufficient 
number  of  their  boats  into  the  Mississippi.— 
During  the  whole  night  from  the  movements  of 
the  British  camp,  it  was  e/ident  that  something 
unusual   was  going   forward,  and   there   was 
every  reason  to  believe  that  a  general  attack 
had  been  resolved  ufoa.    With  the  appearance 
of  light,  these  conjectures  were  fully  confirmed; 
the  whole  British  force  was  seen  to  advance  in 
columns,  with  a  steady  and  determined  appear- 
ance, many  of  them  carrying  ladders  and  fas- 
dnea.    The  utmost  silence  pervaded  the  Ameri- 
can lines,  while  the  British  were  permitted  to 
approach  within  the  range  of  grape,  when  the 
artillery  opened  a  most  tremendous  fire,  and  as 
their  ooluraaa  were  entirely  uncovered  and  on  a 
level  plain,  they  were  mown  down  with  prodi- 
gious slaughter.    They  still,  however,  courage- 
ously  moved  forward,  closing  up  the  broken 
ranks  with  fresh  troops.    But  when  they  came 
M 


tisimmmmitm 


168 


HnTO>Y  or  TBB  LATB  WAl. 


within  i-each  o(  the  musket  and  deadly  rifle,  the 
whole  American  lino  waa  one  sheet  of  fire.  It 
was  in  vain  that  the  British  officers  endeavored 
to  urge  forward  their  troops  to  certain  slaugh- 
ter: the  bravtsst  of  them  fell  at  the  head  of 
their  culujnns.  They  at  last  shrunk  from  the 
contest,  in  which  thoy  saw  nothing  but  univer- 
sal ruin.  The  columns  broke,  and  fled  in  the 
utmost  oonfusfon.  A  few  detachments  only 
could  reach  the  ditch,  where  thoy  were  devoted 
to  sure  destruction.  A  few  platoons,  led  by  Col. 
Renee,  reached  the  Utch  and  clambered  up  the 
rampart;  but  in  an  instant  not  one  of  them  was 
leA  alive.  The  repulse  was  universal.  The 
astonished  Britons  stood  aghast  for  a  few  min- 
utes, when  in  a  fit  of  phrenzy  they  made  the 
second  eflbrt;  but  with  the  same  unfortunate 
result.  They  were  now  rolled  away  from  the 
field,  which  waa  left  covered  with  the  slain;  a 
most  shocking  and  pitiable  scene  of  carnage. 
The  commander-in-chief.  General  Packenham, 
fell  dmost  at  the  commencement  of  the  action; 
Aon  after  him,  Generals  Kean  and  Gibbs  were 
duigerously  wounded,  and  General  Lambert 
retired  from  the  field  with  the  fragments  of  the 
army,  the  flk>wer  of  the  British  forces,  aocus- 
tooied  to  conquer  in  the  wars  of  Europe.    Two 


tbousau( 

will  be  r 

Onth 

not   so 

over  uE 

attack  < 

the  stal 

Genera 

ing  the 

The  ei 

conseqi 

of  Lou 

cans  0 

SO  kill 

The 

ing  th 

oovere 

the  ni 

officer 

filled 

and  I 

poure 

givini 

wouh 

destr 

mani 

tbeu 


Tax  LATB  WA>. 

nusket  and  deadly  rifle,  the 
was  one  sheet  of  fira.  It 
British  officers  endeavored 
:  troops  to  certain  slaugh- 
them  full  at  the  head  of 
y  at  last  shrunk  from  the 
)y  saw  nothing  but  univer- 
nns  broke,  and  fled  in  the 
A  few  detachments  only 
I,  whore  thoy  were  devoted 
A  few  platoons,  led  by  Col. 
itch  and  clambered  up  the 
istant  not  one  of  them  was 
tulse  was  universal.  The 
tood  aghast  for  a  few  rain- 
if  phrenzy  they  made  the 
rith  the  same  unfortunate 
now  rolled  away  from  the 
covered  with  the  slain;  a 
pitiable  scene  of  carnage, 
hiof.  General  Packenham, 
nmencement  of  the  action; 
irals  Kean  and  Oibbs  were 
id,  and  General  Lambert 
with  the  fragments  of  the 
the  British  forces,  accus- 
he  wars  of  Europe.    Two 


uvrtouv  OF  Tn«  hun  wa«.  150 

tbouMind  men  fell  in  this  iU  fated  assault,  which 
will  be  remembered  while  history  lasts. 

On  the  opposite  side  of  the  river  things  were 
not  so  brilliant.  The  British  ^i^  ""TJ 
over  under  Col.  Thornton,  and  marched  to  the 
attack  of  the  entrenchments.  The  mihtia  of 
the  state,  with  some  of  the  Kentuckians,  under 
General  Morgan,  after  one  fire  ^-}^^^''^'^^ 
ing  the  batteries  in  the  hands  of  '»»«  B'^'"^ 
tSo  enemy  had  been  able  to  outflank  ^^  m 

of  Louisiana  militio.    The    oss  oi  u 

cans  on  both  sides  of  the  river,  did  not  exceed 

20  killed  and  40  wounded. 

The  British  were  now  only  -tudjous  of  eff«^ 
•      VK«ir  nscane.    On  the  lUh,  they  were  dis- 

♦K«  niaht  leaving  a  great  number  of  woundeo 
1^«  Irp^^^^^^^^^    The  inhablants  were 
^^"witr^/for  this  providenUal  deliverano. 
Za  hailed  Jackson  as  their  deliverer.    They 
"^r^  forth  their  gratitude  in  P"b»-  ^-Ju. 
^-  for  this  signal  escape  from  a  foe  who 
^Zl  have  doo^  their  city  to  p.Uage  «^ 
T        J^^       The  utmost  tenderness  and  hu- 


liO         nvron  w  m*  lat«  wa«. 

the  iwBistanoe  of  their  fellow  creatures.  Every 
hou«3  was  a  hospital  for  the  reception  of  the 
wounded,  and  the  benevolent  .istfim,  the  nuna, 
were  actively  engaged  in  pouring  o,l  on  their 
woundm  and  in  di^harging  all  the  office,  ol 
christian  charity. 

In  a  few  days  afterwards,  it  wna  discovered 
that  the  enemy  had  entirely  disappeared,  and 
the  state  of  Louisiana,  then  the  latest  star  in 
the  confederation,  shone  with  beauteous  lustre. 

The  British  proceeded  soon  after  to  attack 
Fort  Bowyer,  and  being  able  to  bring  an  over- 
whelming force  against  it,  thoy  took  possession 
of  the  place.  Not  however  to  retain  it  long,  as 
*  the  news  of  peace  soon  after  caused  it  to  be 
restored  to  the  Americans. 

This  event,  so  welcome  to  all,  at  last  arrived. 
It  was  concluded  between  the  British  and  Amer- 
ican commi8sion«;r8,  on  the  24th  of  December, 
1814,  and  ratified  by  the  Prince  Hcgent  on  the 
28th,  and  by  the  President  and  Senate  on  the 
18th  of  February,  1816.    All   parties  in  the 
United  States  heartily  rejoiced.    America  was 
victorious  in  the  struggle;  the  enemy  had  been 
signally  vanquished  both  by  sea  and  land;  and 
though  the  change  which  had  occurred  in  Eu- 
rope  had  rendered  it  unnecessary  to  insist  m 


litel 


r  THB  IJ^"**  ^*>' 

it  fellow  creatures.  Every 
Hi  for  the  reception  of  the 
)enevolent  Bistfini,  the  nuns, 
^  in  pouring  oil  on  their 
scharging  all  the  oflBces  of 

fterwards,  it  wew  discovered 
id  entirely  disappeared,  and 
ana,  then  the  latest  star  in 
ihone  with  beauteous  lustre, 
ooeeded  soon  after  to  attack 

being  able  to  bring  an  over- 
jainst  it,  they  took  possession 
t  however  to  retain  it  long,  as 
«  Boon  after  caused  it  to  be 
lericans. 

urelcome  to  all,  at  last  arrived, 
between  the  British  and  Amer- 
ra,  on  the  «4th  of  December, 
1  by  the  Prince  Hegent  on  the 

President  and  Senate  on  the 
ry,  1816.  All  parties  in  the 
artily  rejoiced.  America  was 
struggle;  the  enemy  had  been 
liod  both  by  sea  and  land;  and 
^  which  had  occurred  in  Eu- 
8d  it  unnecessary  to  insist  in 


Hi«o«v  OF  T««  ^-^  ^*"- 


161 


world,  that  America  was  not  to  be 
impunity. 

\ 
CHAPTER  XVll. 

Seminole  W..-Florid»  T««y. 

A^HOVOH  the  war  was  thus  happily Jerm^ 

nated,  the  temple  of  Janus  was  "«   y«^ J*^ 

i»»-iv  closed      Hostilities  were  stiU  kept  up 

pletely  closed^  ^^^  ^^^.^  y.^^. 

'^unC^tween  the  United  States  and  the 

Floridao.  established 

General   Gains,  early  "»/»"'f  "^    f^^„. 
himself  with  a  considerable  force,  on  the  fron 
'W  Borgia,  for  the  purp<«e  of  repjessmg 
the  incursions  of  the  Se-m>  e^  ^  ^^"^^    ^o 
^ived  at  this  time  no  orders  to  cros 
the  Spanish  territory.  ^f 

Ademand-as-deJ^^^m^^^^^ 
the  perpetrators  of  the  "«'"  ^^.^o^t 

with  which  they  were  charged,  m 
any  other  effect  than  to  provoke  them 


162 


HISTOSy  OF  THB  lATB  WAS. 


peat  their  aggressions.  The  matter  was  grow- 
ing serious,  especially,  as  a  harbor  was  openly 
afforded  for  the  runaway  slaves,  a  number  of 
whom  had  been  left  by  the  British,  on  their 
retreat  from  Florida,  and  who  might  form  a 
dangerous  rallying  point. 

An  occurrence  took  place  in  the  month  of 
November,  which  called  for  active  measures 
on  the  part  of  the  United  States.  Lieutenant 
Scott,  descending  the  Appalachioola  in  a  boat, 
with  about  fifty  persons,  many  of  them  women 
and  children,  was  suddenly  attacked,  and  with 
the  exception  of  one  woman,  the  whole  party 
was  massacred  by  the  Indians,  with  circum- 
stances of  cruelty  seldom  exceeded  even  among 
those  barbarous  people.  The  Indians,  in  the 
meantime,  fancying  themselves  in  perfect  se- 
curity, within  the  Spanish  limits,  had  collect- 
ed in  considerable  force,  apparently  elateid  by 
their  recent  exploit.  Towards  the  close  of  the 
year,  Greneral  Gains  received  discretionary  or- 
ders to  pass  the  Spanish  boundary,  and  inarch 
into  the  Indian  country,  if  this  should  be  found 
the  only  means  of  repressing  their  barbarous 
inroads  into  our  territory. 

On  the  receipt  of  the  intelligence  of  the  mur- 
der of  Lieutenant  Scott  and  his  party,  (3reneral 


Ja 
th 
au 
P 

Wl 

w 
to 

ec 
a1 
fi 
n 
t1 
U 
o 
f< 

0 

t 

s 

t 


>Sy  or  THB  lATJl  V/AM. 

essions.  The  matter  was  grow- 
lecially,  as  a  harbor  was  openly 
le  runaway  slaves,  a  number  of 
in  left  by  the  British,  on  their 
'lorida,  and  who  might  form  a 
ying  point. 

be  took  place  in  the  month  of 
ich  called  for  active  measures 
'  the  United  States.  Lieutenant 
]g  the  Appalachioola  in  a  boat, 
y  persons,  many  of  them  women 
i^as  suddenly  attacked,  and  with 
)f  one  woman,  the  whole  party 
I  by  the  Indians,  with  circum- 
Ity  seldom  exceeded  even  among 
9  people.  The  Indians,  in  the 
ying  themselves  in  perfect  se- 
the  Spanish  limits,  had  collect- 
ble  force,  apparently  elated  by 
ploit.  Towards  the  close  of  the 
grains  received  discretionary  or- 
e  Spanish  boundary,  and  inarch 
country,  if  this  should  be  found 
I  of  repressing  their  barbarous 
r  territory. 

t  of  the  intelligence  of  the  mur- 
int  Scott  and  his  party,  <3reneral 


niSTOBY   OF  THB   LATB  WAR. 


168 


Jackson  was  ordered  to  take  the  command  of 
the  forces  collected  near  the  seat  of  war,  with 
authority  to  call  upon  the  militia  of  the  ad- 
joining states,  for  reinforcements.  His  orders 
were  similar  to  those  of  General  Gains,  but 
with  more  urgent  instructions  to  bring  the  war 
to  a  speedy  and  effectual  termination. 

Jackson,  with  his  usual  promptitude,  march- 
ed to  the  borders  of  Florida  with  a  consider- 
able body  of  Tennessee  volunteers,  and  some 
friendly  Indians  under  his  command.    He  im- 
mediately crossed"  the  Spanish  line,  and  entered 
the  Seminole  country,  destroyed  the  Micasurky 
towns,  and  then  proceeded  to  the  Spanish  fort 
of  St.  Marks,  at  that  time  garrisoned  by  a  small 
force,  entirely  insufficient  to  have  any  control 
over  the  Indians.    He  then  summoned  the  fort 
to  surrender,  and  then  entered  it  without  re- 
sistance.   It  was  then  garrisoned  by  American 
troops. 

After  this,  he  marched  to  the  Tucoany,  and 
destroyed  the  Indian  towns  on  that  river.  The 
motive  assigned  for  the  capture  of  St.  Marks, 
was  the  inability  of  the  Spanish  force  to  re- 
press the  hostility  of  the  Indians,  and  the  al- 
leged fact,  of  the  Spanish  commander  having 
afforded  them  the  means  of  carrying  on  the 


m 


HI8T0BV  OF  THK  LATE  WAS. 


war — reasons  which,  on  the  part  of  the  Ameri- 
can general  may  be  considered  amply  sufficient 
for  acting  on  his  own  responsibility,  although 
his  orders  were  no  further  discretionary,  than 
to  authorize  him  to  pass  the  Spanish  bound- 
ary, in  pursuit  of  the  savages. 

An  occurrence  took  place  shortly  after,  which 
gave  rise  to  much  difference  of  opinion,  and 
animated  discussion,  although  the  conduct  of 
General  Jackson  was  sustained  by  the  Exec- 
utive, and  sanctioned  by  a  majority  of  votes  in 
congress.     Two  British  subjects,  Alexander  Ar- 
buthnot    and   Robert   Ambristie,  were    seized 
within  the  territory  thus  occupied,  and  a  court 
martial  was  ordered  by  the  General;  the  court 
in  obedience  to  the  order,  took  their  cases  under 
consideration,  and   sentenced  Arbuthnot  to  be 
hanged,  and  Ambristie  to  be  shot,  on  the  charge 
of  having  aided   and  excited    the  Indians  to 
make  war  against  us.    The  court  on  reconsid- 
eration, changed  the  sentence  of  Ambristie,  to  a 
milder  punishment.    But  the  General  set  aside 
the  last  decision  of  the  court,  and  ordered  the 
first  to  be  carried  into  execution,  which  was  ac- 
cordingly done,  and  both  the  unfortunate  men 
suffered  an  ignominious  death. 

The  two  principal  chiefs,  who  had  been  the 


or  THK   LATE  WAB. 

:h,  on  the  part  of  the  Ameri- 
considered  amply  sufficient 

own  responsibility,  although 

o  further  discretionary,  than 

to  pass  the  Spanish  bound- 

the  savages. 

>ok  place  shortly  after,  which 
difference  of  opinion,  and 

n,  although  the  conduct  of 
was  sustained  by  the  Exec- 
led  by  a  majority  of  votes  in 
ritish  subjects,  Alexander  Ar- 
ert  Ambristie,  were  seized 
T  thus  occupied,  and  a  court 
ed  by  the  General  j  *he  court 
!  order,  took  their  cases  under 
I  sentenced  Arbuthnot  to  be 
istie  to  be  shot,  on  the  charge 
and  excited    the  Indians  to 

us.  The  court  on  reconsid- 
le  sentence  of  Ambristie,  to  a 
t.  But  the  General  set  aside 
f  the  court,  and  ordered  the 
into  execution,  which  was  ac- 
i  both  the  unfortunate  men 
lious  death, 
il  chiefs,  who  had  been  the 


niSTORY  OP  THE  ULTE  WAR. 


106 


leaders  of  the  Indians,  (one  of  them  engaged  in 
the  massacre  of  Lieutenant  Scott,)  were  taken 
by  General  Jackson,  and  also  executed.  The 
Indians  have  always  been  barbarous  and  cruel 
in  their  mode  of  warfare  towards  us,  although 
we  have  observed  towards  them  the  laws  of  ci-. 
vilized  war,  which  require  us  to  spare  the  van- 
quished, unless  they  be  pirates,  spies  or  traitors. 

The  General  having  terminated  the  war  in 
this  quarter,  dismissed  the  Georgia  militia,  and 
was  about  to  take  up  his  lino  of  march  for  Ten- 
nessee, when  accounts  reached  him  from  that 
jMirt  of  Florida  west  of  the  Appalachicola,  which 
induced  h".m  to  change  his  purpose.  The  In- 
dians and  negroes  had  fortified  themselves  on 
this  river;  and  it  was  said,  that  a  large  body 
of  the  former  was  collecting  at  Pensacola.  . 

These  Indians  were  part  of  the  Creeks,  who 
had  been  subdued  during  the  war,  and  who 
had  of  late,  committed  outrages  in  Alabama, 
and  it  was  even  said,  were  furnished  with  am- 
munition and  supplies  by  the  Spanish  com- 
mandant. The  General  proceeded  to  Pensa- 
cola with  about  twelve  hundred  men — advanced 
to  the  town,  although  warned  by  a  communica- 
tion from  the  Governor  against  the  violation 
of  a  neutral  territory. 


160  nDTTOBY  OF  THB  lATB  WAR. 

He  took  possession  of  Pensacola,  and  after- 
wards of  the  fort  at  the  entrance  of  the  boy, 
after  a  feeble  resistance  on  the  part  of  the 
Spaniards.  The  Indians  fled  everywhere  in 
dismay,  and  hid  themselves  in  impenetrable 
swamps,  where  many  perished  from  hunger. 
Two  companies  of  rangers  scoured  the  country 
in  every  direction,  until   the  Indians  entirely 

disappeared. 

The  taking  of  Pensacola  and  St.  Marks,  and 
the  occupation  of  the  Spanish  territory,  gave 
rise  to  serious  remonstrances  on  the  part  of 
the  Spanish  minister.     The  executive  justified 
the  conduct  of  General  Jackson,  which  arose 
from  a  necessity,  in  which  th?  Spanish  govern- 
ment was  to  Wame.     But  as  the  nulity  occu- 
pation of  Florida,  and   the   expulsion   of  the 
Spanish  authority  was  not  authorized  by  the 
executive,  it  was  agreed  to  restore  the  coun- 
try to  Spain. 

In  the  meantime,  treaties  were  set  on  foot 
for  the  purchase  of  Florida,  which  was  at  last 
accomplished,  and  possession,  in  pursuance 
thereof,  delivered  on  the  17th  of  January, 
1821.  Thus  according  to  the  expression  oi 
the  great  Athenian  orator,  "cuttiw^  up  ihb 

WAR  BY  THE  BOOTS." 

THE  sin>. 


tMAWMMt*" 


OF  THB  LATB  WAS. 

ision  of  Pennacola,  and  after- 
at  the  entrance  of  the  boy, 

sistance  on  the  part  of  the 
Indians  fled  everywhere  in 
themselves  in    impenetrable 

many  perished  from  hunger. 

)f  rangers  scoured  the  country 

m,  until   the  Indians  entirely 

Penaacola  and  St.  Marks,  and 
>f  the  Spanish  territory,  gave 
remon.strances  on  the  part  of 
lister.  The  executive  justified 
Grcneral  Jackson,  which  arose 
',  in  which  ths  Spanish  govern- 
ame.  But  as  the  nulity  occu- 
da,  and  the  expulsion  of  the 
ity  was  not  authorized  by  the 
U3  agreed  to  restore  the  coun- 


ime,  treaties  were  set  on  foot 
e  of  Florida,  which  was  at  last 
ind  possession,  in  pursuance 
Bd  on  the  17th  of  January, 
x:ording  to  the  expression  oi 
lion  orator,  "ctrrTuru  ur  ihb 


OTS, 


THB  sin>. 


} 

J'i 


